SDSU PELSA Interview Days 2021 - Current Student & Faculty Profiles by

Robert Guzman (he/him)

rguzman8037 — 2021-02-04 16:20:21 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
UC Santa Barbara c/o 2019
Undergraduate Major:
Hydrologic Sciences & Policy
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Position/ Assistantships:

Assistant Program Coordinator, MA PELSA (SDSU)
Graduate Assistant, Office of Student Conduct (UCSD)

Favorite thing about PELSA:
The never-ending love and support from my incredible cohort-mates!
Interview Days Advice:
Whether you need interview advice, words of encouragement, or just want to talk with current students, the Virtual Front Desk is the place to go! We may not be physically together on campus, but we are still here to support you all in this process however we can :)
Contact:
rguzman8037@sdsu.edu
(951) 833-5853

Erin Nicole (she/they) Vedar

erinnicolevedar — 2021-02-04 16:53:47 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
San Diego State University, c/o 2016
Undergraduate Major:
Psychology
*Additional Degrees:
- San Diego State University, c/o 2017: MA in Education, emphasis Counseling
- San Diego Mesa College, c/o 2020: Certificate of Achievement, American Sign Language Studies
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Position/Assistantships:

CCHALES Research Assistant (SDSU)
Graduate Student Affairs Assistant, Center for Educational Partnerships, Outreach, and Success (SDSU)
Graduate Assistant, Center for Student Involvement - Communication & Leadership (UCSD)

Favorite Thing About PELSA:
How much I've learned and grown alongside my cohort and incredible, supportive staff and faculty <3
Interview Days Advice:
We are SO HAPPY YOU'RE HERE! You were accepted to Interview Days, so don't let any anxious or Imposter Syndrome thoughts tell you otherwise! We are here to help support you showing up the best you can. We've all been through it, trust us.
Contact:
erinnicole@vedar.com
(619) 791 -8530

Alejandro Arellano (he/him/el)

2021-02-04 16:57:16 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
Cal State San Marcos c/o 2017
Undergraduate Major:
Liberal Arts and Sciences
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Position:
-Assessment-School Relations Specialist at Palomar Community College
-SEMILLAS Research Assistant
Favorite thing about PELSA:
Being able to apply the learning not only into my current position but the special committees I sit on at Palomar College.
Interview Day Advice:
Talk to the other candidates and learn more about them. They could be your potential cohort mates. Don't feel like you are not enough because you got invited to interview for a reason.
Contact:
aalejandro556@gmail.com
760-670-7303

Kaleigh Lacouture (she/her)

2021-02-04 17:12:52 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
Sonoma State University c/o 2018
Undergraduate Major:
Psychology, duhhhh <33
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Position/ Assistantships:

Graduate Assistant- Student Life and Leadership: Commuter Life (SDSU)
Student Advisory Board- Peer Mentor Coordinator (SDSU)

Favorite thing about PELSA:
The family I have build within my cohort-mates, and the tight knit community I have been included in within my GA <3
Interview Days Advice:
WE ARE HERE FOR YOU. We are truly so happy and honored to support you throughout this process, lean on us anytime you need to! Do not feel like a bother when you have a question/comment. We have been looking so forward to getting to know you all. AND BREATHE- take moments to be proud of where you are (:
Contact:
kaleighmadison96@gmail.com
(805) 712-8772

Lauren Gallegos (she/her)

2021-02-04 17:58:48 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
University of Arizona c/o 2017
Undergraduate Major:
Psychology, minor in Leadership
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Positions:

Assistant Coordinator, New Student and Parent Programs at SDSU
Student Advisory Board Coordinator for 2nd years

Favorite thing about PELSA:
The incredible support I've received from the network I've gained from my assistantships, PELSA alumni, and cohort mates. Also the friends I've made <3
Interview Days Advice:
Take time for yourself! It's a LONG and stressful process, especially on Zoom! We don't expect you to be at every single workshop or event during the process - take what you need and leave what you don't! And don't be afraid to ask questions!
Contact:
laurenngallegos@gmail.com
559-269-6002

Daphne Joie Calaguas (she/her)

2021-02-04 19:32:19 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
San Diego State University c/o 2020
Undergraduate Major:
Sociology, minor in Leadership
Year in Program: 1st
Current Position:
Graduate Assistant for Student Engagement for Associated Students, Inc. at CSUSM
Favorite thing about PELSA:
The connections I have made within my cohort and my graduate assistantship. This program has also taught me how to reflect on myself intentionally and look within to find my purpose in student affairs.
Interview Days Advice:
Smile and dance when you wake up. If you need to rock out to your favorite songs to hype you up, DO IT. Remind yourself that you are where you need to be, where you are SUPPOSED TO BE. Like everyone else has shared, breathe and remember you are AMAZING. If you need pep talk or a hype buddy, I am here for you!
Contact:
daphnejoiecalaguas@gmail.com
(951) 249-6289

Aia Hawari (she/her/هي)

2021-02-04 20:06:51 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: UC San Diego, c/o 2017
Undergraduate Major: Literature/Writing, minor in Literatures of English
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Positions:

Front Desk Coordinator at International Faculty & Scholars Office at UCSD;
Resource Development Committee Member with MSA National; and
EDI Taskforce Co-Chair and Special Projects & Campus Collaboration Chair with UCSD Staff Association.

Favorite thing about PELSA:
The support from the cohort, staff, faculty, and alumni is amazing. This program can be an opportunity for some serious soul-searching, if you let it be!
Interview Days Advice:
You've made it this far, and you deserve to be here! Schedule breaks and time to process/breathe. Connect with your potential cohort mates! Don't think of them as competition, but rather as your colleagues in the near future. Ask for people's contact info and add them on LinkedIn-- y'all are in this together and you'll make it through together, too!
Contact:
aiahawari7@gmail.com
714-786-0544

Tanner Wilson (he/him/his)

2021-02-04 21:35:23 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
CSU Fullerton, c/o 2016
Undergraduate Major:
Choral Music Education; Minor in Child & Adolescent Development
Year in Program: 1st
Current Positions:

Graduate Assistant for Recognized Student Organizations at SDSU
District Director for Mu Phi Epsilon Professional Music Fraternity

Favorite thing about PELSA:
The close bonds with my cohort, the amazingly supportive faculty and GA supervisors, and the opportunity to learn and grow!
Interview Days Advice:
You so got this!!! You deserve to be here, and we all are so excited to support you during Interview Days. Feel free to chat with any of us to process and take a breath. My advice is to take breaks throughout to give your eyes a rest from your screen, don't be afraid to ask questions, and plan a way to celebrate your accomplishments! (My choice is always ice cream!)
Contact:
twilson3755@sdsu.edu

Jamie Garcia (she/her)

2021-02-04 22:28:05 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: San Diego State University, c/o 2019
Undergraduate Major:
Psychology, minor in Counseling and Social Change
Year in Program: 1st
Current Positions:

Graduate Assistant, Educational Opportunity Programs (EOP) Outreach, Recruitment, and Admissions (SDSU)
Peer Advisor, Department of Counseling & School Psychology (SDSU)

Favorite Thing About PELSA:
The overwhelming amount of support I have received from faculty and staff as well as my cohort.
Interview Days Advice:
Get to know everyone :) We are a community and here to support each other. These are very unusual times so don't be afraid to reach out and ask questions. Most importantly, remember to enjoy this moment. You are not here by mistake. You should be extremely proud of yourself for making it this far!
Contact:
jgarcia1449@sdsu.edu

Kylee Webster (She/Her)

kyleem_webster — 2021-02-05 04:35:11 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: Boise State University, 2018
Undergraduate Major:
Communication with an emphasis in Public Relations and a German Minor
Year in Program: 2nd year baby!!
Current Positions:

Front Desk Security Manager (FDSM), SDSU Housing and Residence Life
Student Advisory Board (SAB) Program Coordinator
Full time time bad ass (self employed)

Favorite Thing About PELSA:
My cohort mates and colleagues :')
Interview Days Advice:
Have fun and show your personality! Fun, yet work place friendly zoom background maybe? Don't forget to send thank you follow up emails! You made it this far so clearly we see the value in you, now it's YOUR turn to show them !! :) <3
Contact:
kyleem.webster@gmail.com
@kytakes (insta) feel free to DM me!

Caitlin Hernandez (She/Her)

chernandez0639 — 2021-02-07 07:43:58 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: California State University San Marcos, c/o 2018
Undergraduate Major:
Human Development with a minor in Psychology
Year in Program: 1st
Current Positions:

Graduate Assistant for Sorority and Fraternity Life (UCSD)
Social Justice Committee member
Advisor for Academic Development, Alpha Omicron Pi

Favorite Thing About PELSA:
The community that I have found in this program! My cohort mates help keep me motivated to keep going, and they each bring a unique perspective to the program. Also the support from the second years!
Interview Days Advice:
Have fun, y'all got this! Please know we are here to provide whatever support you need. Get to know the people you're interviewing with. They could be your potential cohort mates and it makes for fun stories later! Take time for yourself throughout the day. Zoom can be exhausting, and we understand. Plan something enjoyable for yourself at the end of the day to celebrate. And finally, just know that we are so happy to share this space with you. You are here for a reason, REMIND YOURSELF THAT. Don't let Imposter Syndrome tell you otherwise!
Contact:
chernandez0639@sdsu.edu
(909) 644 - 7093

Dannie Schwarz (she.her)

mschwarz6251 — 2021-02-07 17:38:16 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: Western Washington University, 2012
Undergraduate Major: Sociology, Communications
Year in Program: 1st
Current Positions:
GA for ARPE, SDSU, and GA for SLL, SDSU
Favorite Thing About PELSA:
Learning
Interview Days Advice:
Share a situation, action, and result (SAR) when answering interview questions.
Contact: Dannie.Schwarz@gmail.com

Alycia McGeever (She/Her)

2021-02-08 16:59:41 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: UC Irvine c/o 2018
Undergraduate Majors: Education Sciences & Sociology
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Positions:

GA for CSUSM Gender Equity Center
Social Justice Committee Member

Favorite Thing About PELSA:
I am grateful for the community this program has created for me! I feel supported by my cohort members, supervisors & professors. ❤️ I have learned so much from everyone throughout my grad school journey.
Interview Day Advice:
YOU GOT THIS! You belong here & have greatness to offer this program. Just be yourself, embrace this moment & make sure to do some self care. We are all so excited to meet you!
Contact:
alyciammcgeever@gmail.com

Jessica Newland (She/Her)

2021-02-08 18:32:17 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
San Diego State University, c/o 2019
Undergraduate Major:
Kinesiology with an emphasis in Pre-Physical Therapy
Year in Program: 1st
Current Positions:
- Graduate Assistant with New Student & Family Programs at CSUSM
- Academic Advising Intern with the Office of Advising and Evaluations at SDSU
Favorite Thing About PELSA:
Definitely the community that we have built within our cohort! They are definitely the ones that have helped me get through being fully online these past two semesters.
Interview Days Advice:
Always remember that YOU BELONG HERE! You were chosen for an interview for a reason. Don't be afraid to ask questions from any current PELSA student, we are eager to get to know you and to answer any questions you might have about the program or our experiences.
Contact Info:
jnewland3473@sdsu.edu

Kyle Hamlin (He/Him/His)

2021-02-08 19:21:39 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
Eastern Washington University, 2016
Undergraduate Major:
Biology
Year in Program: 1st
Current Positions:
- Front Desk Security Manager for Residential Education
- Programming Coordinator for the PELSA Student Advisory Board (SAB) (@pelsasab)
Favorite Thing About PELSA:
For me, it is the connections I have made in my cohort, the connections to people in the 2nd year cohort, as well as with the faculty and staff.
Interview Days Advice:
Breathe! It may seem like a lot, but there are many people here ready to help you feel at home. You will meet a lot of people and your network will grow. Soak it up!
Contact Info:
khamlin2355@sdsu.edu
Instagram
LinkedIn
(425) 879-0969

Sonya Stepacheva (She/Her)

2021-02-08 22:29:51 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: California State University San Marcos, c/o 2020
Undergraduate Major: Literature and Writing Studies with a minor in Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies
Year in Program: 1st
Current Positions:

Graduate Assistant for Fraternity and Sorority Life at CSUSM
Graduate Assistant for Orientation for Muir College at UCSD
Peer Mentor Program Coordinator for the PELSA Student Advisory Board

Favorite Thing About PELSA:
The incredibly supportive PELSA community. The faculty really want to see you succeed and the cohort model provides for a great support system of people going through the same process as you. You are not alone here and everyone here wants to see you succeed.
Interview Days Advice:
Just remember that you are exactly where you are supposed to be. You are qualified to be at this interview and have a lot of great and unique qualities to bring to the program so be sure to highlight them! Don't hesitate to ask questions if you've got them! You got this!!!
Contact:

sstepacheva5967@sdsu.edu
(619) 850 - 4227

Mirna Sabri (She/Her/Hers)

2021-02-09 02:01:48 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: San Diego State University Class of 2019
Undergraduate Major: Business Administration - Accounting
Year in program: 1st year
Current position: Senior Student Services Assistant in the Outreach Office.
Favorite Thing About PELSA: Supportive faculty and amazing cohort.
Interview Day Advice: Go for a walk or do a self care activity, you will do great!!
Contact: mirnasabri@gmail.com

Kelsey Easterly (She/Her)

kelseyeasterly — 2021-02-09 03:25:23 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: University of California, Davis, c/o 2011
Undergraduate Majors: Nature and Culture; Spanish
Year in Program: 1st
Current Positions:

High School Spanish and AVID teacher

Favorite Thing About PELSA:
The cohort community, the PELSA faculty and staff, and learning from each others' experiences.
Interview Days Advice:
Write down and practice verbalizing your "why" or purpose for joining this program. Also, remember that faculty is rooting for you and want you to do well!
Contact:

keasterly4920@sdsu.edu
(619) 861-4707

Lisa Gates (she/her)

lgates12 — 2021-02-09 05:33:17 UTC

Welcome to SDSU and to PELSA Interview Days!!!
Undergraduate Institution:
Cypress College & SDSU
Undergraduate, MA and PhD Major:
Communication with an emphasis on gender, health, organizations, and power
Current Positions:
Director and Advisor for the Amazing PELSA Program and the SDSU Leadership Minor
Favorite Thing about PELSA:
The synergy, love, and support within and between the cohorts, the brilliant faculty, our Alumni, and what all of this <3 allows us to learn and enact in the community. Beyond grateful for our amazing students who lead in powerful ways at SDSU, UC San Diego, and CSUSM and other institutions.
Interview Days Advice:
You are in excellent hands with the folks who are leading during Interview Days! We are all here to support you! Be sure to prepare beforehand for the virtual interview. Remember that everyone who you will interact with is a Student Affairs professional--we are in it with you!
Contact info:
lgates@sdsu.edu

Noodle Bagaporo (she/they)

2021-02-09 08:08:07 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
University of California, Los Angeles, c/o 2018
Undergraduate Major:
Asian American Studies
Human Biology, Society, & Genetics
Year in Program: 1st
Current Position:

Associated Students Assistant Programs Coordinator

Favorite Thing About PELSA:
The commitment to community -- graduate school online is no joke. I wouldn't be here and as successful and as eager as I am without the love and encouragement from my cohort mates, the second years, and our faculty!
Interview Days Advice:
Come as you are. Authenticity speaks volumes. Nerves are human -- this is a huge deal! Know that you have community with us, and if you need any help, don't hesitate to reach out. Wear something that makes you feel confident, practice your mindfulness, and center your "Why" in all that you do!
Contact:
natalie.r.bagaporo@gmail.com
(619) 823-4029

Sherry Mallory (she/her)

2021-02-09 15:40:06 UTC

Undergrad Institution/Major:
UC Santa Cruz
B.A. in Psychology
Grad Institution/Major:
University of Arizona
Ph.D. in Higher Education with an emphasis in Student Affairs
Current Position(s):
Dean of Student Affairs for Revelle College at UC San Diego
Co-Instructor for ARP 623 (the master's capstone course)
Favorite Thing About PELSA:
I really enjoy the sense of community that the program fosters. Also, the amazing students, faculty, and alumni.
Interview Days Advice:
Relax, breathe, and enjoy your time getting to know one another. Ask lots of questions, and remember: you're interviewing us as much as we're interviewing you. Good luck. You've got this!!!
Contact info:
slmallory@ucsd.edu

Susan Nguyen (she/her)

2021-02-09 21:04:56 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
San Diego State University

Undergraduate Major:
Public Administration

Year in Program: 2nd

Current Position:
Assistant to the Executive Director, Office of Housing Administration at San Diego State University

Current Internship:
Academic Advisor for the SDSU Leadership Minor

Favorite thing about PELSA:
Faculty members and PELSA alumni are very supportive and genuinely cares about our success!

Interview Days Advice:
Take a deep breath, give yourself a hug, be yourself, ask questions, and have fun!

Contact:
susan.nguyen@sdsu.edu
LinkedIn

Andra Allen (she/her)

2021-02-09 21:34:30 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
San Diego State University c/o 2020
Undergraduate Major: Interdisciplinary Studies in Three Departments (Counseling, Psychology, and Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences)
Minor in Interdisciplinary Studies (Honors)
Year in Program: 1st
Current Position: Graduate Assistant for UCSD's Black Resource Center
Favorite Thing about PELSA: The support and care is given from my cohort, professors, mentors, and faculty. It is a positive environment to learn and grow as a student and individual!
Interview Days Advice:
Be present, ask any questions if you have any, and everyone understands how stressful but rewarding this interview process can be. Also, make sure to treat yourself after the end of the day! You deserve it and sending positive vibes!
Contact:
asallen@sdsu.edu
619-851-8932

Will Tran (he/him/his)

2021-02-10 00:33:36 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
University of California, Santa Barbara c/o 2018

Undergraduate Major:
Anthropology with a Biological Emphasis

Year in Program: 1st

Current Position:
Academic Success Coach, SDSU's Center for Intercultural Relations

Favorite thing about PELSA:
Both faculty and staff within the PELSA program seem to have this innate intuition as to what students' needs are. It automatically makes classes and the overall transition so much easier, and the feeling of support is carried through out the year.

Interview Days Advice:
Authenticity goes a long way! Bring your best self, wear something that makes you feel empowered, and know that you have already made such an exceptional journey. Know that you are amongst peers and staff who truly love supporting you, please do not hesitate to reach out before or even after interviews. Good luck!

Contact:
wtran5568@sdsu.edu
714-623-1658

Kiana Adams (she/her)

kiana_adams95 — 2021-02-10 03:53:35 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
San Diego State University c/o 2019
Undergraduate Major:
Kinesiology
Leadership Minor
Year in Program:
2nd
Current Position:
Academic Coordination Assistant with SDSU Student-Athlete Academic Support Services
Favorite Thing about PELSA:
There are tons of opportunities to network, get connected to new people, and explore different functional areas
Interview Days Advice:
Be confident, be yourself, and let your passion and purpose carry you through the experience (: and ask questions and remember everyone is there to support you
Contact:
Keadams@sdsu.edu
858-232-0369

Priscilla Morales (She/her/Ella)

2021-02-10 04:07:58 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
San Diego State University c/o 2018
Undergraduate Major: English Literature
Year in Program: 1st
Current Position: Youth Center Coordinator at Casa Familiar (Non-profit organization that focuses supporting the South Bay community)
Favorite Thing about PELSA: The loving and understanding cohort-mates and of course super COOL and kind professors! There are so manny opportunities to learn from amazing professionals through guest speakers, webinars, and through the Grad Assistantships! Although going virtual has been a challenge, it's also given a different and more accessible aspect to networking and possible job prospects!
Interview Days Advice:
Be as genuine as you can! It's a stressful time yes, but life will have many stressful times so try to enjoy it!Connect with the folks you encounter during interview days (yes I know it's virtual pero you never know who you'll connect with and end up being super close with <3! ) After interview days, get yourself a nice meal or dessert and give yourself props because OMG YOU DID THAT!
Contact:
pmoralessalaza0546@sdsu.edu
moralespriscilla16@gmail.com

Eduardo Magallan (He/Him/His)

2021-02-10 05:47:51 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
University of California, San Diego - c/o 2019
Undergraduate Major: Sociology, Science and Medicine
Year in Program: 1st
Current Position: Scholarships Graduate Assistant for the SDSU Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships
Favorite Thing about PELSA: My amazing cohort and the wonderful PELSA professors. This program has offered me a sense of community and belonging. My cohort mates are very supportive and the professors really want you to succeed!
Interview Days Advice: Be your true self, come with an open mind, take advantage of the workshops that are provided, and BREATHE. Interview days can be a lot. Make sure to practice self-care throughout the day with breaks and remember that you deserve to be here!
Contact:
emagallan1458@sdsu.edu
559-836-3979

Ryan Gesmundo (He/Him/His)

2021-02-10 15:07:47 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
San Diego State University - c/o 2010
Undergraduate Major: Sociology
Minor: LGBT Studies
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Position: Administrative Support Assistant II at the Charles W. Lamden School of Accountancy in the Fowler College of Business at San Diego State University.
Favorite Thing about the PELSA: Being in a Cohort. I have met amazing people that are now my friends, additional network and now part of my life! You will bond with Professors and learn about Student Affairs through different perspectives.
Interview Days Advice: You deserve to be here and be genuine! Speak from the heart. The only person that will get in your way is YOURSELF! Don't be down on yourself and be confident because you have nothing to prove! You made it this far and give yourself grace! Make sure you give yourself time to Unplug, breathe, and relax when you go to your interviews! You got this!!!!
Contact:
ryansdsu619@gmail.com
rgesmundo@sdsu.edu

Andrew Mutsalklisana(He/him/el)

amutsalklisana1879 — 2021-02-10 15:35:17 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: Cal State Fullerton
Undergraduate Major: Kinesiology
Year in the Program: 1st
Current Position:
- Graduate Assistant for SDSU's Native Resource Center
- Discussion Leader for SDSU's Leadership Minor
- SEMILLAS Research Assistant
Favorite Thing about PELSA:
My cohort is one of my favorite parts of being in PELSA because of the support and sharing space with awesome individuals. I enjoy the classes and learning from our professors.
Interview Day Advice:
Definitely know that you deserve to be here and also have fun! With the different workshops provided, it's a great way to get to know folks from both cohorts. Also, take time for self-care and let us know if you have any questions. Y'all are going to do great!
Contact:
Amutsalklisana1879@sdsu.edu

Lesley Aguirre (She/Her/Ella)

2021-02-10 16:33:54 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: Cal State Fullerton
Undergraduate Major: Theatre with an emphasis in Education
Year in the Program: 1st
Current Position:
-Sixth College Orientation Graduate Assistant
-Graduate Assistant for SDSU's Latinx Resource Center Comunidad Program
- Discussion Leader for SDSU's Leadership Minor
- SEMILLAS Research Assistant
Favorite Thing about PELSA:
Community. Community within my cohort. Community within my assistantships. Community within the second years. Community within my new mentors. Community within the Faculty and Staff. Thankful for the community we created and how it continues to grow!!!❤
Interview Day Advice:
YOU BELONG HERE!
Know that you are more than qualified to be in the spaces you are in!!! I AM PROUD OF YOU!!!!! Also remember to breathe and take breaks :) it will be a long two days so take what you need and when it is done--CELEBRATE YOURSELF!!! :) We are all rooting for you!!!!
Contact:
laguirre7924@sdsu.edu
lesleyaguirre325@gmail.com
(714) 576 - 3432 (Don't hesitate to reach out!!!!)

Michelle Halverson (she/her)

2021-02-11 03:34:38 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
Sonoma State University, c/o 2017
Undergraduate Major:
Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Position:

Student Affairs Assistant for Fraternity & Sorority Life at SDSU
Chapter Advisor - Nu chapter of Alpha Xi Delta at University of Washington

Previous Positions:

Fraternity & Sorority Life Graduate Assistant at CSU San Marcos
ARP 205 & 296 Discussion Leader Intern for the Leadership Minor

Favorite Thing About PELSA:
The amazing people in my cohort. I have found my best friends in this program and people that are reliable and always can make me laugh after a tough day. These folks really share my values and I feel safe talking to them about anything, which is so comforting especially during this time.
Interview Days Advice:
Practice an elevator speech about who you are and why/how you came to be where you are. Listen to student affairs podcasts and understand what student affairs professional are talking about! Take a breath, take time to prepare for interview days with snacks and water, also plenty of rest so you are FRESH. You got this!!!
Contact:
michellehalverson17@gmail.com
(916) 367-3754

Helen Ma (She/Her)

2021-02-12 17:21:08 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
San Diego State University C/O 2019
Undergraduate Major:
Public Administration
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Positions:

Graduate Assistant for Commuter Life at SDSU
Project Assistant for the Career Center at San Diego Mesa College

Favorite Thing about PELSA:
I love how close I have gotten to the people in the cohort! I love being surrounded by such a supportive group of people that I can lean on and learn from!
Interview Day Advice:
Take a deep breath and remember that you deserve to be here! Take every interview one at a time. Don't be afraid to ask questions or to mingle with those also interviewing!
Contact:
hma@sdsu.edu

Christine Cortez (She/her)

2021-02-12 18:13:04 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: Columbia University
Undergraduate Major: American Studies
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Position:

Graduate Assistant, Office for Student Success, College of Education SDSU

Favorite Thing about PELSA:
We have an awesome cohort that looks out for one another. Having this community is important as we navigate school, work and our lives. I also really enjoy the people I work with at my GA. They are kind, understanding and really good at their jobs! I feel like I'm right at home and learn a great deal from them.
Interview Day Advice:
It's a long-ish day so make sure you're prepared mentally. Practice what you'll say, like why you're interested in this field and what fuels you to do social justice work. Be yourself!
Contact:
ccortez1298@sdsu.edu

Rick B. Piñon Delgado(He/Him)

rbdelgado — 2021-02-12 18:29:53 UTC

Undergraduate Institution: California State University, Fullerton 2019
Undergraduate Major: Communications BA / Liberal Studies BA
Year in Program: 2nd
Current Position:

Graduate Assistant, Latinx Resource Center @ SDSU

Favorite Thing about PELSA:
Building and having community with our cohort has really been an amazing experience and has supported me throughout the program. I also believe we have some very strong professors in our program, its only a matter of reaching out to them to learn more or work with them!
Interview Day Advice:
Bring your most authentic self, the program really values that. Also prepare why you have gone all this way already, reflect on your core values and bring them with you!

Contact:
rbdelgado@sdsu.edu (send me an email for anything)

Antonio Faustino Jr (He/Him)

2021-02-15 19:29:27 UTC

Undergraduate Institution:
California State University, Fullerton
Undergraduate Major:
Business Admin - General Management and a minor in Public Relations
Year in Program: 1st
Current Position:
Full Time - Operations Supervisor in the Aztec Student Union at SDSU
Favorite Thing about PELSA:
The community with my cohort and the support/knowledge from our professors.
Interview Day Advice:
Listen to good music before, BREATHE, and to remember the motivation of what got you to that moment.
Contact:
afaustino9755@sdsu.edu