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 in Counseling and Student Services in higher education at Fresno State. 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 600 Pez Dispensers. Come by my office to see them in person!
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. Since we are in the counseling field, I also recommend, “Maybe You Should Talk to Someone” by Lori Gottlieb.
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 Bublé are at the top of my playlist. I also really enjoy Musical Theatre soundtracks like Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, The Outsiders, and Pretty Woman (to name a few). I am also not ashamed to say I may be a slight Swiftie.
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 Boxing, Pilates, CrossFit, and 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 in the front row of Wicked and Anastasia. Being at the Re-Opening night (post-COVID closures) of Phantom of the Opera. Also, the view from the Top of the Rock and Kimmel's 10th Floor is spectacular.
Favorite spot in NYC?
I live near Central Park and am there regularly. My favorite spot is The Oak Bridge; the views from this spot are breathtaking. I love taking family and friends for a tour of the park when they visit.
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.