Tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Crescent City, California. I work for a TRiO Upward Bound, a program dedicated to serving low-income and first-generation high school students, guiding them toward post-secondary education. Working with students is the most important work I have ever done. My mantra when working with students is that if we put belief in students and expose them to college and all of the other wonderful opportunities out there, then more likely than not, they will go on to pursue great things in their futures.
I began my post-secondary education immediately following high school and obtained two associate degrees and landed here at Cal Poly Humboldt.
What motivated you to enroll in the Leadership Studies program?
Getting into some careers requires a degree or intensive experience, which is difficult for a young professional. I knew this program would provide me with guidance and teach me things that I would need as a professional. I also liked how the program was laid out. There is a course sequence that the Leadership Studies students follow, so we all know the courses we will take ahead of time. I like organization, and seeing how organized the Leadership program is was appealing.
How has this program helped you in your career?
This program has assisted me extensively in my career in ways I did not even think it could. During the Data-Driven Leadership course I was looking into student numbers in our program and why these students have an educational goal but have yet to take advantage of our tutoring services. It was hard for me to search for answers. I remember Rich asked me, "Why haven't you asked the students?" That is just one of many examples of how this program has helped me. Learning things I did not think I would learn and thinking about things I could not think of myself has been the best part of this program.
How have you grown as a leader since starting this program?
I do believe I have grown as a leader since starting this program. Not only have I grown as a leader of individuals who also assist students, but I have grown as a peer. I do not think a leader is just one who leads groups of people and coordinates and delegates their duties and tasks; a leader is an individual who can also assist their peers and take on rigorous functions within a group.
What are your goals after completing your bachelor’s degree?
My ultimate goal is to be a guidance counselor who leads other support staff and helps them assist students with the various things that come with advising. I want to pursue graduate school, but I am still determining if I would like to do that right away or take the time to navigate which path I would like to pursue.
