Meet Our Team: Jason Asdourian

Jason Asdourian, Student Support Specialist

As a Student Support Specialist for students enrolled in deadline-based programs, there’s no one who understands that time is of the essence better than Jason Asdourian.

As a former Civilian for the Army, Jason learned the value of time and prides himself on getting things done now, if not yesterday.

At UNE Online students are our top priority, and their success is what drives each and every one of us to do what we do. We’d like to share a little bit about the people that are dedicated to making that happen every day.

What do you do at UNE Online?

I am a Student Support Specialist for our Graduate Programs in Education. I help our students throughout the entirety of their program and work with them to resolve any issues or speed bumps they may encounter. Student Support Specialists are kind of like a concierge for the student.

Where are you from?

I grew up in South Portland, Maine. Far, far, far away 🙂 I moved out of state for a while, but had to move back to our beautiful state.

What’s your favorite dessert?

Pumpkin pie. My mom makes a fantastic pumpkin pie, “Patty’s Pumpkin Pie.” I usually have it close to Thanksgiving and the winter holidays.

What’s the best professional advice you’ve received?

I worked as a Civilian for the Army for a while, and I learned a lot during that time. One of the things that I learned from some of the officers was that you should never be afraid to do tasks that others may believe are below their pay grade. It’s more of a respect thing, but if the privates see the officers doing things at their level, it helps gain their respect. Just remind yourself that nothing is beneath you.

What’s on your desk?

I have photos of my son, paperwork that I reference with important dates and information, and I have a loon from my grandfather. My family was moving my grandfather into a retirement home, and I took it as a way to remind me of him. It was made in Maine in the early 90’s and cost him $60 in 1992, which makes me think it could be worth a lot today.

What’s your favorite part about what you do here at UNE?

Recently, with graduation, it was super exciting to be able to put faces to names of the students that I’ve been working with for the past year.

If you could eat one thing for the rest of your life what would it be?

Everyone says pizza, and that would be mine, but I also love hot sauce and can put it on nearly anything.

What is the first thing you do in the morning?

I get up and get my 15-month old son, Calvin, to daycare.  I get him dressed, get his lunch ready and drop him off.

What’s your favorite emoji?

Recently it’s been the thumbs up. It’s very efficient and easy.

What’s your motto?

This is going back to New Jersey and the Army, but one of the retired generals said: “If not now, when?” I’m definitely not a procrastinator and like to get stuff done now, if not yesterday.

What’s your favorite thing about living in Maine?

I enjoy the four seasons and the proximity to the ocean and beautiful lakes that we have. One of my favorite spots is Moose Pond up by Shawnee Peak. My neighbor from growing up had a camp there, and I spent a lot of time at his camp. And Portland is awesome especially the restaurants and local beer. If I had to choose a favorite local IPA it would be Bissell Brothers, but for a favorite local dark beer, I would pick Foundation Brewing Company.

Do you have a secret talent?

I can put hot sauce on nearly anything.

What’s your ideal Sunday?

My family and I have been doing this every Sunday for the past few Sundays. We get up in the morning and go to Mr. Bagel in Scarborough. After we eat our bagels we continue on to Scarborough Elementary School and take my son to the playground there. After that, we head back home and all take a nap.

Interested in applying to UNE Online? The sooner you apply, the sooner you hear back. Fill out an online application today at online.une.edu/gateway-portal-page!