MA Advisor
Where were you born/where did you grow up?
I was born in the Philippines but moved to Los Angeles before I was two. I grew up in Central California and the Los Angeles area.
Where did you attend undergrad/grad school?
I got my Bachelor's in Psychology and Communication at California State University, Fresno. I also earned my Master's at "Fresno State" in Counseling and Student Services in Higher Education. Go Dogs!
What's your go-to snack?
Is pizza considered a snack?? If not, then let's say, Pez Candy. I have a collection of over 500 Pez Dispensers.
What's your favorite book?
I really enjoyed Dan Brown's book series with Robert Langdon. My favorite was Angels & Demons. My former students also got me hooked on the Harry Potter series.
What's your favorite movie?
My top two are Ocean's 11 and Roman Holiday. Gotta love a good heist movie and, of course, the Audrey Hepburn classics.
What's your favorite music?
Give me a Jazz Crooner any day of the week. Frank Sinatra and Michael Buble are tops on my playlist. I also really enjoy Musical Theatre soundtracks like Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, and Pretty Woman (to name a few).
What do you do in your spare time?
I've really gotten into Fitness over the past few years, and I have recently taken up kickboxing, did some pilates, and some cycling. I am also a big "Broadway" fan and try to see as many shows as possible. I am also a die-hard San Antonio Spurs basketball fan.
Coolest thing you've done/seen in NYC?
Going backstage, meeting my favorite Broadway artists for many different theatre shows. Sitting front row of Wicked and Anastasia are two things I'll always remember.
Favorite spot in NYC?
Being new to New York, I'll have to get back to you on this. (I'll gladly take any suggestions.) In the meantime, I'll just say, anywhere I can find a good pepperoni pizza!
One piece of advice you'd give to graduate students:
Experiences, big or small... Do them! Every experience (good and not-so-good) is a step forward, and you don't know what it will lead to. Even the "bad" experiences will help you figure out something new. Get involved with as much as you are capable of so that you can make informed decisions based on these experiences.