Director/ Veterans Academic Achievement Counselor
How long have you been at Berkeley?
I recently hit my 10 year mark as a staff member, I started on January 4, 2014. I started as the Academic Achievement Counselor, then Program Coordinator, and now serve as the Director of the Cal Veteran Services Center. As a student, I transferred to UC Berkeley in 2007 from Ohlone Community College and graduated in 2010 as an Anthropology major.
What do you love most about working here?
The students! I have been able to meet so many amazing, intelligent, and driven individuals. It’s exciting to be able to have a small impact in their journey. When I first started at UC Berkeley I had come from an organization that helped homeless veterans get employed and housed. I took this role because I wanted to have an impact on veterans in a way that would prevent them from ever being in that position to begin with.
What's your job?
In my role as the Director of the Cal Veteran Services Center I lead our center in supporting veteran and military-connected students in getting to UC Berkeley, supporting them as students here, and providing guidance as they prepare for their next steps. We do this through outreach and recruitment events, presentations, counseling, workshops, facilitation of 1 unit transition courses, and social and community building events. An example of these events is our annual white water rafting trip. I love being able to be creative in the programs and services that we provide to our students.
What's a great day at work look like for you?
A great day is one where I get to celebrate wins with students. Whether it be a good grade on an assignment, getting into graduate school, or a job they are excited about, it always brings a smile to my face when they share their accomplishments with me.
What do you hope will be different in your work this time next year?
I hope to increase the number of veteran and military-connected undergraduate students within the program.
Where’s your favorite place on campus?
Memorial Stadium. I am a big Cal Football fan. I also enjoy the Morrison Library when I am looking for a quiet space to do some thinking.
Fun fact about me:
I love to cook, especially in the summer when the weather is nice and I get to grill or smoke meats.