Meet Our Team: Josh McFarland

Josh McFarland, Student Support Specialist, Science Prerequisites for Health Professions

Note: As of April 2019, Josh is now the Marketing Manager for the Science Prerequisite Courses for Health Professions and our Graduate Programs in Education! While Josh continues to use his effervescent energy to raise awareness about our many online prerequisites courses, you can find the current Science Prerequisites Student Service Advisors on this page.

Josh McFarland works as a student support specialist for our Science Prerequisite Courses for Health Professions. Josh is without a doubt, the happiest and most hydrated person in the office! He always has his massive bright blue water jug at his side and big smile on his face. Even the more challenging days at the office can seem like a breeze in the presence of his positive energy. This positivity is a huge reason Josh is great at what he does.

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 currently a Student Support Specialist for the online Science Prerequisite Courses. I assist prospective students with enrollment questions and the registration process, and I’m also here as a source of support for students to reach out to throughout their courses.

Where are you from?

I’m originally from Houlton Maine aka “the north”! For those that are not sure where that is, it’s the last stop on Interstate 95 before Canada. It’s a long drive home, to say the least.

What’s your favorite dessert?

That’s a tough one to narrow down. I do enjoy a good hot fudge sundae, with extra hot fudge of course. Also, Mrs. Dunster’s donuts are a longtime favorite. The bakery started in Canada, not far from Houlton. Unfortunately, if you’re not from Maine, Nova Scotia or New Brunswick you’ve probably never heard of them.

What is the first thing you do in the morning?

I take about 10-20 minutes to muster the energy and courage to leave my bed. Once that’s been done, it’s off to make a delicious hot cup of coffee for a pick-me-up.

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

To always put yourself out there. Confidence in yourself is the key to success.

Josh and his big blue water bottle

What’s the latest lesson you’ve learned?

I’ve recently realized to always speak up. No matter the situation or issue. Value your own voice and others will value it as well.

What’s on your desk?

I have a massive water jug that I try and drink fully every day! Other than that you’ll find your typical office supplies!

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

I really enjoy working with students. Learning that our individual courses really assist students in a bind when trying to meet deadlines is great!

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

It would be two. Chicken Fingers and French Fries. My go-to food ever since I can remember!

What’s your favorite emoji?

Gotta love the monkey with the hands over the mouth! 🙊

Favorite book?

I’m not an avid reader, but Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None” is a classic!

What’s your favorite thing about living in Maine?

Having lived in Maine all my life I love the friendliness and laid-back attitude of Mainers! Plus you can’t beat all of the scenic areas to see!

Do you have a secret talent?

I can smile uncontrollably even in the worst situations. Not necessarily a “good” talent.

What’s your ideal Sunday?

My ideal Sunday depends on the seasons. In the summer you can find me at a local beach soaking up the sun. On colder days, I’ll be relaxing at home with the heat cranked to the max!

Stay tuned for more of our team profiles! In the meantime, click here to learn more about our Science Prerequisites for the Health Professions class offerings or click here to register for a science prerequisite class now!