In this Quick Hits, Director of Academic Services Chrisy Maier ’98 talks fantasy football, study habits, and the best traditions at the  county fair. 

What is a study mistake you made in college that students can learn from?

So many! But one of the biggest things was not taking good notes in classes that I loved because I thought I would remember everything since it was such amazing content.

What is your best tip for creating an academic schedule?

I actually find a rigid schedule somewhat confining. So I like to think of schedules more in terms of patterns and less in terms of “I’m going to do this at this particular time.” It cuts off opportunities for serendipity.

If the writing center tutors went up against career services in a game of flag football, who would win? Why?

I don’t know — we have Ben Heinrichs.

What is a Michigan day trip everyone should take from Hillsdale?

For used book people, John K. King books in Detroit. Or I would make a little drive to the Moville Creamery original location. Or I’d go to Warren Dunes, and there’s a great little Moville Creamery placed outside the state park entrance. I love going to Lost Nations here in Hillsdale County because it’s just a fun fall hike.

If you could attend a concert for any artist, alive or dead, who would it be?

Can I go to a poetry reading instead? I want to go hear Seamus Heaney. I’ve seen him once, and it was the most amazing experience ever. 

Do you have any traditions or can’t miss items at the fair?

Absolutely. You have to go to the Red Barn and get an elephant ear. You have to see the animals. I love dairy cows so you have to go see those. And then I was in 4H, so I always go see those exhibits.

Would you rather go to the apple orchard or a pumpkin patch? 

An apple orchard because I love to bake and baking from real pumpkins is actually kind of difficult. I bake everything — pies, cakes, and a big tradition my sisters and I have is  getting together once a year to make 90 quarts of applesauce.

Do you have any fall traditions with your kids?

Our fantasy football league. I don’t usually win, but we have a family trophy that goes around. I don’t want to jinx this but right now I’m 3-0 and it’s the best record in the family.

Do you prefer sweet or savory brunch? What breakfast item popped into your mind when I asked you that?

Both. I make this blueberry coffee cake that I absolutely love. But I also make this savory breakfast casserole with sausage and cheese and mushrooms. I make waffles and smoothies every Sunday after church.

What is the best ice cream in Hillsdale?

These might be fighting words, but definitely Udder Side. The twisted terrier is amazing. And right now they have pumpkin pie. I’m a sucker for fall flavors.

What was your dream job as a kid?

I always wanted to be a teacher, or I wanted to be famous, probably for writing. 

What book are you currently reading?

“An Index of Self-Destructive Acts” by Chris Beha. He’s the visiting writer coming to campus next month. I highly recommend his fiction. He’s a contemporary writer. He’s a man of faith. I’ve read all three of his novels. His first book, “What Happens to Sophie Wilder” is really short. You can read it in an afternoon.

What is one tradition from your time at Hillsdale which needs to make a comeback?

The one tradition that doesn’t need to make a comeback is midweek parties, because people don’t have the time. One thing I miss for this current iteration of students is that Olds Dormitory used to have this secret room that only girls could go into where the kitchen is now.

What is your Rough Draft order?

A moscow mule.