By: Giselle Kuang, Staff Writer

Whether you are feeling stressed from school, or you just want to talk to someone, Mills’ wellness counselors are always there for their students. Ben Goltz, one of the wellness counselors here at Mills, was always there to lend a helping hand, a listening ear, and a warm smile to students. He has been a school counselor since 2010 but was only at Mills for 4 of those years. November 8th marked his last day with the Mills community  before he departed the Viking ship. His new job is to work for a software company.

hether you are feeling stressed from school, or you just want to talk to someone, Mills’ wellness counselors are always there for their students. Ben Goltz, one of the wellness counselors here at Mills, was always there to lend a helping hand, a listening ear, and a warm smile to students. He has been a school counselor since 2010 but was only at Mills for 4 of those years. November 8th marked his last day with the Mills community  before he departed the Viking ship. His new job is to work for a software company.

Ben has advised many wonderful clubs and groups here are Mills. From being the co-advisor for a mental health club called BC2M to a mentor in  the grief group and a boys group, he gave students an outlet. You also might have seen Ben with his co-worker Sophia on stage talking about mental health awareness in assemblies. Before he left, he offered some inspirational advice. “Tell the students here… your GPA does not define you. In my book, you’re already enough.”

Ben has impacted the lives of many students. A few peers have also expressed their personal experiences talking to Ben. “He’s been here for me, for everyone… he’s always there to listen and be there when you need support, when you need help, and he will be greatly missed” said Angela Chan, a senior at Mills. Laura Louie, a sophomore, agreed, saying, “Ben has been there from the start when I needed him the most, I could not get outside help but… Ben has been here when I needed him the most.” They both agreed that just him being there and available to help and listen was enough. Many students relied on Ben, as he was always ready to lend an ear and would help them as best as he could.

In addition, Ben has a parting message for all students. “I just wanted to say that I have experienced a wonderful swell of well wishes and wonderful messages from students and staff and I’m grateful for everyone here.”

Best of luck on your new path and thank you for your service at Mills!