Slava Sotov, Technical Services Graduate Assistant

Hometown: Ivanovo, Russia
Undergraduate Education: Computer Information Technology, MSU
Pursuing a Master’s Degree in: Information Technology 

Position Responsibilities:

• Providing technical support
• Maintaining and making sure all of the equipment is working
• Training and helping students
• Communicating with clients and other individuals I may come across
• Customer Service
• Administrative Duties
• Leadership 

Past Experiences: "I’ve worked as a student assistant with CSU Technical Services since May 2022, where I gained hands-on experience with audio-visual event support—setting up and operating soundboards, microphones, projectors, and lighting. I’ve learned how to adapt to last-minute changes, solve technical problems quickly, and communicate clearly with both clients and my team. I also worked with ResLife Painting, where I supervised up to 20 student workers in the absence of full-time staff. That role taught me how to plan tasks, lead a team, and work independently. In addition, I’m a certified American Red Cross lifeguard, which helped me develop strong focus, responsibility, and crisis management skills."

What you like about your CSU Staff or GA position: What I enjoy most is being part of a team that plays a key role in making campus events successful. I like working with audio-visual equipment, solving technical problems, and helping set up everything behind the scenes. It’s rewarding to see how our work directly supports students, staff, and guests. I’m also looking forward to my new role as a Graduate Assistant, where I’ll be able to take on more responsibility, help train others, and continue growing professionally.

GETTING TO KNOW SLAVA 

My top accomplishments since joining the CSU staff include gaining strong technical skills in audio-visual event support and becoming a reliable team member for setting up and operating equipment like soundboards, microphones, and projectors. I’ve helped ensure that events run smoothly by staying adaptable, responding quickly to technical issues, and supporting my teammates during high-pressure situations.

The most rewarding aspect of my work is seeing an event come together after hours of behind-the-scenes setup. Knowing that my work helped create a seamless experience for both organizers and guests feels great.

In my free time, I enjoy fishing, traveling to new places, working out, and spending time with my friends. These activities help me stay balanced, energized, and connected outside of work.

SLAVA FAST FIVE FUN QUIZ 

1. Three words that best describe you: Reliable, adaptable, motivated. 

2. Three things that can always be found in your refrigerator: Chicken breast, milk, mandarin oranges. 

3. Name three people, living or dead, you would like to invite for dinner: I’d invite Albert Einstein for his brilliant mind and curiosity, Michelle Obama for her leadership and advocacy, and my grandfather, because I’d love to hear his stories and wisdom firsthand. 

4. What is something people would be surprised to know about you? People might be surprised to know that I’m a certified American Red Cross lifeguard. It’s a role that taught me a lot about staying calm under pressure and being responsible for others’ safety, skills that I don’t always get to talk about in my everyday work. 

5. What superpower would you like to have? Why? I’d choose teleportation, so I can get anywhere I want instantly. It would save time, make travel easier, and let me visit friends and family or explore new places without the hassle.