Alum Taking a Stan
Mark Milett
'73 History
Briefly, after graduating from Stanislaus in 1973, I was hired by the Social Security Administration and worked as a claims representative in California and the Northern Mariana Islands. Then went to law school and after passing the California bar, came to the Washington D.C. area and worked for the Appeals Council of SSA where I have been an Administrative Appeals Judge for the last 14 years. On the personal side, I have been partnered with Dan Olmsted for the last 25 years. His book "The Age of Autism" was published by Thomas Dunne Books in September 2010. I am "Opa" to 3-year-old Carson who keeps me busy.
Why did you choose CSU Stanislaus?
Having grown up in the L.A. area I wanted a small, rural college.
What advice would you give a prospective student?
Be prepared for life to get in the way of your best laid plans. Stanislaus offered me the (slightly) slower pace I was looking for as well as the active interaction with the faculty.
What was your favorite academic or student life experience?
I spent my junior year of college in Japan, easily one of the best experiences of my life. I still go to Japan every three or four years.
What is your career objective?
Retirement! After 37 years with SSA, retirement is within sight. This year or next.
Who was your most influential personal and/or University mentor?
Dr. Stenzel was my advisor and steered me to the Junior Year abroad program for which I am forever grateful.