As an academic advisor, I am here to guide students through their college journey.  I believe advising goes beyond picking classes and meeting degree requirements.  Advisors are mentors and advocates.  Through honest, empathetic conversations, I develop lasting relationships with students.  Through this relationship I hope to provide students with tools to grow their confidence, independence, and self-advocacy.  By the time they reach their ultimate goal of graduation, students will leave prepared not only for their career ahead, but for life outside of college.  I am a supporting cast member of a student’s story, cheering at their successes and helping them pick themselves up when they stumble.  College can be a stressful time, but with support it can also be an exciting time of growth.  I have experience both as a UNM student and as a teacher, which gives me unique insight into challenges student faces.