Staff Spotlight: Cecilia Saavedra (she/her)

A smiling woman with long, curly dark hair stands outdoors in front of a blurred background of green trees and pink flowers. She is wearing a black top with a red cardigan and blue beaded earrings.

Cecilia Saavedra (she/her), Administrative Coordinator for SEED Scholars Honors Program.

Four people are standing side by side indoors, smiling at the camera. Behind them is a screen displaying the logo for the SEED Scholars Honors Program at UC Berkeley.

SEED Cal Day Open House – Pictured left to right: Dr. Nancy Cardenas, Cecilia Saavedra, Linken Lam, and Dr. Ira Young

June 11, 2025

Administrative Coordinator for the SEED Scholars Honors Program

How long have you been at Berkeley? 

I have been working at UC Berkeley since April 2022. I started as a Financial Literacy Advisor with DSP Scholars in the Disabled Students’ Program. In August 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to join the SEED Scholars Honors Program team.

What do you love most about working here?

What I love most about working here is the community. Building connections with students and staff across campus keeps me rooted and recharged. I love being in a space where I can bring my full self to work, where my experiences and values are respected and appreciated. I especially value the opportunity to support students through their academic journey because years ago, others showed up for me, and now I get to pay it forward.

What's your job?

I am the Administrative Coordinator for the SEED Scholars Honors Program.

What's a great day at work look like for you?

A great day starts with a cinnamon bun and a cup of coffee for that caffeine and energy boost. I check emails while walking on my walking pad, aiming to hit my 10k steps for the day. I like making steady progress on tasks and staying on top of my deadlines using my task tracker spreadsheet. Between meetings, I enjoy tidying up my inbox, calendar, and Google Drive. And when I am on campus, I love running into other staff—it always makes the day better.

Where's your favorite place on campus?  

My favorite place on campus is sitting near Strawberry Creek; I love listening to the water flowing. It is a peaceful spot that helps me slow down and recharge.

Fun fact about me:

I enjoy tending to my backyard micro farm, where I grow organic vegetables and care for a small fruit orchard. I love watching anime, reading manga, sipping tea, and spending time with my cat during my downtime.