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Orientation Leader Team

Student Orientation Coordinators

Manuel Alvarez

Name: Manuel Alvarez

Pronouns: He/him/his/el

Hometown: Coachella, CA

Major: Kinesiology – Exercise Science

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation, Kinesiology Student Association, Resident Assistant, PDC ASI Advisory Committee

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The unique environment students and staff create. There’s no tension anywhere whatsoever.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or transfer student? Go to office hours, tutoring, or form study groups even for the “easy” classes!

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Fun, unique, professional, memorable!

Alex Flores

Name: Alex Flores

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

Major: Information Systems Technology - Cybersecurity

CSUSB Involvement: Tennis Club, E-Sports Club, Orientation

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB special is that it’s an HSI (Hispanic Serving Institution) and its large percentage of graduates who are first in their family to do so.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or transfer student? To step outside your comfort zones because college can be a time for personal growth to enhance your college experience overall.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Exciting, interactive, friend-making, info-packed, adventure!

Orientation Leaders

Alondra Arechiga

Name: Alondra Arechiga

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

Major: Nutrition Science and Dietetics

CSUSB Involvement:  I actively use the resources on our campus like the Rec Center and the Retreat. I enjoy attending hosted events like the Howl, movie nights, and when the therapy dogs visit campus!

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I believe the diversity on campus is extremely unique. Most students here are first generation, including myself. It’s special to be on a campus that acknowledges that.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give is as warm/fuzzy your comfort zone is, college is where you have to step out of that. Explore campus, take advantage of the resources! Lastly, make friends because crossing the state with someone you know in college would feel awesome!

Describe Orientation in 5 words: exciting, informative, entertaining, welcoming, and comforting!

Ayala, Lidia

Name: Lidia Ayala

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Hesperia, CA

Major: Business Administration – Entrepreneurship

CSUSB Involvement: Four Year Pledge

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB has a sense of making me feel at home. The programs, announcements, posts,etc makes a person want to do more. This school makes me want to strive for more.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give would be apply for internships and build connections with their classmates and professors. This will help them gain experience and helpful connections towards their major.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Unique, Family friendly, amazing, informational, fun

samara barboza

Name: Samara Barboza

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Highland, CA

Major: Kinesiology

CSUSB Involvement: Honors Program

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB special would have to be the people and the faculty. The energy this campus brings and how united everyone is.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give to a first year or new transfer student is you got here for a reason. You did all the work and more work to come but you can set anything you put your mind to.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Bonding, information, positivity, comfortable, family

Heidi Basurto

Name: Heidi Basurto

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Victorville, CA

Major: Child Development

CSUSB Involvement: SSD volunteer notetaker, Four Year Pledge

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB has a very welcoming environment. CSUSB also makes students feel included, they have many exciting events that keep us motivated and makes college life less stressful.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Don’t be afraid to use resources provided to you! They’re meant to help you. Also make sure to attend events and get involved on campus. We were all first year students at some point!

Describe Orientation in 5 words: interactive, exciting, welcoming, build connections

Melissa Burgueno

Name: Melissa Burgueno

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Psychology

CSUSB Involvement: I haven’t been involved as much but I would like to get involved more and as much as I can before graduate!

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is unique and special because it allowed me to feel like home due to the help and support that is provided for us. The campus does not only help us as students but also as individuals.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice that I would give to first-year students is that it is alright to get out of your comfort zone and try the many involvements that the campus has to offer for you to gain social network and friends.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Proud, welcoming, supportive, knowledgeable

Krystel Calara

Name: Krystel Calara

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Rialto, CA

Major: Pre-Nursing

CSUSB Involvement: Attending different events such as The Coyote Experience, Pow Wow, Late Night, as well as attending programs for housing.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? It’s such a clean environment as well as there are so many campus events! It’s friendly, no matter where you go.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Get involved as much as possible, see what resources the school provides in order to have a good first year academically and in general.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: experience, exciting, learning, friendly, and fun.

Nathan Contreras headshot

Name: Nathan Contreras

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Manteca, CA

Major: Information Systems – Cyber Security

CSUSB Involvement: Cybersecurity mentorship through CISO    

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I think what makes CSUSB special is the land the school sits on. I think it adds more to the school and is very interesting to learn about and see the school celebrate.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advise I could give is to stay organized and on top of their school work. Since college is on your own you have to be a go getter for yourself and your future.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: informational, exciting, nervous, opportunity, leadership

Jewel Dipini

Name: Jewel Dipini

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Victorville, CA

Major: Communication

CSUSB Involvement: Resident Assistant, student employee at University Children Disability Development (UCDD)

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is very unique because they are a family, a pack that supports all students, not just a select amount. They embrace all of their students and makes an effort to make everyone feel loved and seen.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? I would tell them to embrace all that the school has to offer go to events go to the tutor/office hours step out of your comfort zone and see all the resources this school has for everyone (no one is left out of the Pack!).

Describe Orientation in 5 words: fun, learning, guidance, understanding, embrace

Angelina Encinas

Name: Angelina Encinas

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Wilmington, CA

Major: Bioinformatics

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I think what makes CSUSB special are all the resources that are available to assist students to do well in their classes and ensure they are supported well during their time at CSUSB.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give to a first year or new transfer student is to take advantage of all the resources available, academic and health, to ensure they stay on top of their classes while also taking care of themselves.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: exciting, interesting, involving, informational, fun

Amalia Esparza

Name: Amalia Esparza

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Spanish

CSUSB Involvement:. Attending campus events, like workshops, fairs, clinics, and I’m also a member of the Undocumented Student Success Center.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is a unique because of the different programs and majors that one can pursue. Also this campus is special for its students’ diversity. I always feel welcome once I enter the buildings.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? I believe one advice that is pretty important is for students to stay on top of their assignments by writing the due dates on a calendar.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: fun and informative

Allana Marice I. Espiritu

Name: Allana Marice I. Espiritu

Pronouns: She/her/ella

Hometown: Fontana, CA

Major: Business Admin – Accounting

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation Leader, student employee at UEC

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The amount of staff, faculty, and everyone welcoming you and making sure that you are successful in your time here at CSUSB.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? There is a lot of free resources at CSUSB, make sure to take advantage of them!

Describe Orientation in 5 words: family, friendship, fulfilling, nerve-wracking, and fun

Gabriel Fernando

Name: Gabriel Fernando

Pronouns:He/him/they

Hometown: Moreno Valley, CA

Major: Nursing

CSUSB Involvement: Several on-campus jobs, lifeguarding and membership at Recreation and Wellness Center. I’m also an Anatomy instructional student assistant.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I believe the culture makes this campus so special. 

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Find out your resources and advocate for yourself. This isn’t high school but a. Not be afraid to reach out and make connections.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: welcoming, exciting, future-bound, reassuring, path-defining.

Eduardo Garcia

Name: Eduardo Garcia

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Hemet, CA

Major: Music

CSUSB Involvement: Audio Tech at SMSU

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Pretty cool, diverse, campus is nice.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student?  Do what ya gotta do, get that bread. That’s how I operate and keeps me motivated to accomplish my goals.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: fun, interesting, informative, long, and cool.

Sarah Garcia

Name: Sarah Garcia

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Liberal Studies

CSUSB Involvement: Student Assistance in Learning (SAIL); I also attend events such as the ASI Elections, events hosted by the Student Union Program Board such as Cosmic Coyote, club fairs, and support the small businesses of CSUSB students through the SMSU LatinX Center.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB special is the faculty. I have had amazing professors and have met amazing people, for example, through the SAIL program, who are interested in the success of students. I believe that at CSUSB it is common to surround yourself with this constant support. In addition, the campus makes CSUSB special. It is a thriving environment for successful learning and engagement.   

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? My advice that I would give to first-year or new transfer students is to not be nervous to ask any questions. The faculty here are nice and will help you. If they can’t, they will refer you to the right person who can assist you better.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Informational, Reassuring, Inclusive, Positive, and Welcoming

Ismael Gutierrez

Name: Ismael Gutierrez

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Fontana, CA

Major: Studio Art

CSUSB Involvement: SMSU Main Desk student employee

What makes CSUSB unique/special? A very unique and welcoming community of students make up the student body. It’s what helps CSUSB create its own identity separate from other colleges.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give to incoming students is to always stay in close contact with your professors. Ask why you got the score that you earned and what you can do to improve.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: new, beginning, open, welcome, start

Bianca Harris

Name: Bianca Harris

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Corpus Christi, TX

Major: History

CSUSB Involvement: I’m involved in my classrooms by always participating. I sometimes attend the indigenous ceremonies on campus. I also attended Camp Coyote with the Recreation and Wellness team.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? As a history major I find it unique that CSUSB is located on tribal land. I also believe it’s amazing that the majority of teachers in the Inland Empire have graduated from CSUSB!

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Make friends with your classmates and talk to your teachers as much as possible. Also get involved in your department activities.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Fun, mentorship, lifelong memories

Emma Hillig

Name: Emma Hillig

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Riverside, CA

Major: Information Systems – Cyber Security

CSUSB Involvement:  Orientation Leader, Student Assistance in Learning (SAIL), Services to Students with Disabilities, and Queer and Transgender Resource Center (QTRC)!

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB has a myriad of unique features, but my favorite is the sense of community and diversity we have, and I attribute this to our student body. We have one of the largest percentages of first-generation students in the CSU system (and even the country), and no one student is perfectly alike to another, and I think it’s wonderful.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Your life and your academic journey are not a race, and you should take it at your own pace. Find your “why’s,” find your joy, be open to new experiences, people, and the resources available to you. Make this journey yours.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: challenging, rewarding, exhilarating, influential, confidence-building

Kalyna Jefferson

Name: Kalyna Jefferson

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Victorville, CA

Major: Criminal Justice

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation  

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I think what makes CSUSB special is there is a variety of clubs and spaces for students. Whether you just want to be a part of something or looking for academic help you have many options on campus.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? A piece of advice I would give to a first-year student is to talk to your advisor and take advantage of them and the academic center resources such as the writing and math centers.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: learning, directing, leading, identifying, adjusting

Alicia Juarez

Name: Alicia Juarez

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Indio, CA

Major: Art - Interface Design

CSUSB Involvement: Powerlifting at CSUSB, previously a Resident Assistant, Peer Advisor.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The amount of resources we have on campus! From affinity centers to academic help like the math gym, STEM center and resources for students like the Den and Cody's Closet! We are more community-oriented than other schools.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Take time to explore campus, there’s countless study areas. Talk to your professors and go to office hours. Hike to the observatory at least once.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Exciting, welcoming, safe, fun and informative! 

Alize Juarez

Name: Alize Juarez

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Victorville, CA

Major: Child Development

CSUSB Involvement: Currently, I am not involved in CSUSB, but have attended some wellness activities and events.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Personally, in my experience CSUSB is unique because I feel welcomed being a Latina. Many classes explore Latino heritage which is wonderful.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If I hadn’t asked questions this year, I would be so lost and unmotivated.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: welcoming, fun, safe-place, informative, and engaging.

Cody Lombardi

Name: Cody Lombardi

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Corona, CA

Major: Computer Science

CSUSB Involvement:  Orientation

What makes CSUSB unique/special? It is a very welcoming and warm community. Everyone is happy to help when asked.  

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Use all available resources. They are there for a reason.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: exciting, nerve racking, involved, informative resourceful

Katie Marshall

Name: Katie Marshall

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Crestline, CA

Major: Biology

CSUSB Involvement: Tennis Club, Biology Club, Chemistry Club, Black student resident

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB unique is the diversity of different people and cultures.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give is to not be too nervous about fitting in. It’s always stressful going somewhere new but almost everyone will feel the same. Give it time, as there are some amazing people.  

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Community, leadership, responsibility, organization, patience

Kimberly Marshall

Name: Kimberly Marshall

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Crestline, CA

Major: Psychology

CSUSB Involvement: I’m a freshman, so unfortunately I’m not in any clubs yet, but I am looking into them! I do attend some events.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB stand out to me is the dedication the staff and teachers have when it comes to the students it makes this campus feel very open and more relaxing.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? I would say to schedule your academic meetings as soon as possible. Even if you are unsure about your majors, you can get concerns out of the way and focus on your classes and what to do next.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: leadership, learning, involvement, welcoming, walking.

Eliana Mejia

Name: Eliana Mejia

Pronouns: She/her/they

Hometown: Riverside, CA

Major: Theatre Education

CSUSB Involvement: I am a part of the American Indian Student Organization (AISO). I join in the beading circles held there and help teach others how to bead.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB special is the involvement of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians to campus.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? A piece of advice I would give is don’t be hard on yourself if your grades do not exceed your expectations. College is different and may be difficult. Strive to complete work and be great students.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Fun, new, social, eye-opening, experience

Samantha Mendoza

Name: Samantha Mendoza

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Yucaipa, CA

Major: Psychology

CSUSB Involvement: None so far besides reaching out to classmates, attending office hours, visiting faculty offices, etc.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The diversity makes CSUSB special as you get to meet different people. As well, there are lots of places to meet new people and connect with friends.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Don’t be afraid to make the first move. Be the first to raise your hand even if your answer might be wrong, be the first to create a class GroupMe and reach out to peers that might be interested.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: exciting, social, valuable, educational, connected/connection.

Anna Munguia

Name: Anna Munguia

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: General Psychology

CSUSB Involvement: Student Mentoring Program, Psychology Club  

What makes CSUSB unique/special? It is where I grew up and was raised, and although it might seem small it has a lot of unique opportunities that several people do not know about.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Don’t be afraid to find yourself in university. This time is special to get out of your comfort zone and experience new and exciting things.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: new, fun, informative, networking, friendly

Fernando Olivares

Name: Fernando Olivares

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Eagle Rock, CA

Major: Computer Engineering

CSUSB Involvement: Student Peer Advisor for ASUA, research in the Computer Science and Engineering department

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB, unlike other CSUs, is a very diverse school that provides education to students of various backgrounds.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Get involved in many things at the school such as workshops, clubs, and school events.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: critical, informative, helpful, exciting, and needed.

Estefany Orellana Lopez

Name: Estefany Orellana Lopez

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Phelan, CA

Major: Business Administration – Accounting

CSUSB Involvement: CSUSB’s Honors Program, PAES scholar, Intervarsity, and in the Latino Business Student Association as their Community Service Director.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I believe what makes CSUSB special is the community of students. CSUSB has a diverse population of students, but most are Hispanic/Latino, and several students are first generation. Because of this, CSUSB has become a welcoming and helpful university (since support and inclusion are key to helping students that are new to what the college experience is like). So because of the students, CSUSB is a supporting university that ais to help their students thrive in their endeavors.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give to first-year or new transfer students is to really explore the support on campus, through campus events, resource centers found in the SMSU buildings, and clubs. Doing so will help them network, find individuals that can help them if they encounter obstacles in their journey, and connect them more with students with similar interests.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: welcome, informative, community, explore and introduction

Harvey Orozco

Name: Harvey Orozco

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Psychology

CSUSB Involvement: Student Assistant at the music box office

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB special is that my brother attends here too and to me, that’s why it’s special. What makes it unique is all of the various programs there are.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I’d give a first year or transfer student is if they are struggling with classes they should consider going to the various tutoring centers, the people there are more than happy to help them.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: exciting, fun, entertaining, engaging, and special  

Milah Paz

Name: Milah Paz

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Rialto, CA

Major: Sociology

CSUSB Involvement: Currently I go to school full time, spring semester I hope hope to be involved with more clubs/volunteer more here

What makes CSUSB unique/special?  What makes it special for me is that it’s located in the county I am from. I wanted to be close to home and this campus is filled with such diverse culture I love to be a part of.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Do not be afraid to ask Do not be afraid to ask help with anything. Go around campus, see what this campus offers. Utilize the many resources here.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: amazing, fun, energetic, resourceful and awesome

Alissah Ramirez

Name: Alissah Ramirez

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Marketing

CSUSB Involvement: SMSU Coyote Lanes, and before that, SMSU Event Operations

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The inclusivity and endless support from the staff, programs, professors, etc.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Surround yourself with a group of people that will encourage you, study with you, have fun with here at CSUSB.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Supportive, energetic, inclusive, informative, encouraging

Trinity Rangel

Name: Trinity Rangel

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Redlands, CA

Major: Biology

CSUSB Involvement:  President of Wrestling club, Student Assistance in Learning (SAIL), panelist at SAIL’s First Generation Event, and involved with the STEM Science Success Center.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB pushes and highlights first generation students to succeed and do great while also acknowledging other unique peoples. Anyone in the community can find a warm place on campus to be involved in.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? My one piece of advice would be to look into all the resources CSUSB offers. When a problem arises in your personal life, knowing your resources can be very helpful.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Exciting, new, informational, helpful, considerate

Evelyn Reyes

Name: Evelyn Reyes

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Colton, CA

Major: Biology

CSUSB Involvement: I am a full time student that would like to be more involved.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is such a unique school because I really feel accepted and well heard by my teachers I get treated just like everyone else.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? I would tell first year transfer students to get involved in school activities to make their CSUSB years as much fun as possible. Also to meet new people and build friendships.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: memorable, informational, special, fun and unique

Sam Rheuark

Name: Sam Rheuark

Pronouns: He/him/they/them

Hometown: San Dimas, CA

Major: Psychology and Theatre

CSUSB Involvement: Nothing yet!  

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Community, alumni office is kind.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Don’t be afraid to talk to people because in the worst case you’ll deal with them for a semester and in the best case you will have a new friend.       

Describe Orientation in 5 words: new, exciting, awkward, rewarding, promising.

Nicole Robles

Name: Nicole Robles

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Santa Ana, CA

Major: Liberal Studies

CSUSB Involvement: Honors Program, on-campus housing

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I believe what makes CSUSB special is the opportunities that are produced. Ranging from the fun events that are hosted on campus to the clubs and programs there is. CSUSB does not hesitate to provide any resources that make students feel welcomed.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student?  One piece of advice that I would give is to not hesitate to got to any program/event that there is on campus. By attending events/programs it gives you the experience and opportunity to meet new people and helps begins these new connections and friendships/

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Fun, entertaining, knowledgeable, confidence-boosting, reassuring

Brian Rodriguez Lopez

Name: Brian Rodriguez Lopez

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Jurupa Valley, CA

Major: Pre-Nursing

CSUSB Involvement:  I am part of the Filipino club, Lubos Paso, and I am also part of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I think CSUSB is special for the many communities it has. Everyone is unique, and nothing is one-size-fits-all. CSUSB has a community for everyone. I was thankful to find my people and community.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give is to find a community. College is a new and fun experience, but there are times where things can get challenging and just having people who you can turn to and lean on can be a great help. They don’t need to jump into this new chapter in their life on their own.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: fun, informational, inviting, opportunistic, intimidating

Genesis Rojas

Name: Genesis Rojas

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Pre-Nursing

CSUSB Involvement: Nothing yet!

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Its diversity and inclusion.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? It’s okay to be nervous be to join clubs and try to get involved with the school.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: fun, communicative, leadership, energetic, reliable

Isabella Salinas

Name: Isabella Salinas

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Riverside, CA

Major: Kinesiology

CSUSB Involvement: Alpha Phi, student housing, SMSU event operator lead, athletic training club

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Although the campus is small, it allows for a great way to make faster connections. It allows for a more home-away-from-home feeling.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Attend all your classes and make faster connections. Attend all your classes and make sure to engage with classmates.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Engaging, informative, entertaining, motivational, school spirit

Elsy Sarvia Zelaya

Name: Elsy Sarvia Zelaya

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Fontana, CA

Major: Liberal Studies

CSUSB Involvement: Honors Program, Sociology Club

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The diversity it offers and the welcoming environment it radiates.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Once piece of advice: You are not alone, this is a big campus with people from different backgrounds and you will easily find a place or group that make you fell welcomed and you will feel encouraged to be yourself.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Welcoming, beginning, relationships, experience, belonging.

Frank Sauceda

Name: Frank Sauceda

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Indio, CA

Major: Cybersecurity

CSUSB Involvement: Nothing yet!

What makes CSUSB unique/special? For me personally, I’d say the people themselves on campus. It seems to me that no matter who I talk to I’m always met with kindness and respect. Everyone is nice and helpful.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? To not be afraid to reach out for help. There are too many resources on this campus to do nothing about it.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: helpful, informative, and very important

Oliver Seth-Smith

Name: Oliver Seth-Smith

Pronouns: He/Hhim

Hometown: Glendora, CA

Major: Computer Science

CSUSB Involvement: Computer Science Club

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I love CSUSB for giving individuals life myself an opportunity to succeed for a non-life changing price and an extremely open community.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Enjoy your time in college. Don’t be afraid to join clubs and be social

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Really fun, eye – opening experience

Jalonis Taylor

Name: Jalonis Taylor

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Sacramento, CA

Major: Musical Theatre

CSUSB Involvement: I’m currently a part of the upcoming musical Pippin. I’m also a member of the student African American Brotherhood.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is unique and special due to its involvement and empowerment of every culture. CSUSB contributes to a diverse environment where everyone can thrive.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? In the beginning of each semester, ensure you go really hard in your studies and tests. This will ensure you less stress towards the end of the semester should something go wrong.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: exciting, fun, knowledgeable, diverse, caring.

Briesa Vasquez

Name: Briesa Vasquez

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Alta Loma, CA

Major: Liberal Studies

CSUSB Involvement: I enjoy going to different events such as the K-Pop night that took place in October.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is unique because there are so many clubs and events for everyone. I also feel that CSUSB is a community. There are so many great opportunities as well.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give to first-years or new transfers is to reach out for help. There are many amazing resources at CSUSB.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Fun, exciting, resourceful, helpful, informative

Jose Vazquez

Name: Jose Vazquez

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Fontana, CA

Major: Psychology

CSUSB Involvement: Academic Advising Peer Advisor

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The way they emphasize diversity and making you feel like you belong. They also make sure to answer all your questions and have resources for anything a student may need.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Don’t be afraid to start conversations with classmates, you never know what might happen.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: informative, unforgettable, friendly, fun, interesting

Trevione Walker

Name: Trevione Walker

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Desert Hot Springs, CA

Major: Business Administration

CSUSB Involvement: Helping in an organization to help others learn English by practicing and playing games with them.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Community, everyone is helpful and nice, surround myself with people who want a good college experience.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Prioritizing effective time management, balancing academics, social life, and personal responsibility can be challenging, and be organized.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: Introduction, guidance, information, connections, adaptation.

Seth Whiting

Name: Seth Whiting

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Hesperia, CA

Major: Biology

CSUSB Involvement: I am currently a member of the American Medical Student Association (AMSA), and Biology Club.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB unique/special is that the university provides many resources, academic or non-academic. It is also special because CSUSB has a variety of different communities or/and cultures.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? One piece of advice I would give to a first-year or new transfer student is that if you feel out of place or a imposter, then get involved in many thing as you can.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: informative, helpful, beneficial, interactive, and worth the day.

Tammira Williams headshot

Name: Mira Williams

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: St. Louis, MO

Major: Information Systems - Cyber Security

CSUSB Involvement: I work as a Resident Assistant in the BRS LLC. I am also on the CSUSB e-sports team and I am our school’s EOP RSP ambassador.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The diversity and many clubs and programs. Everyone is welcomed.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? Socialize! Go out to the events. Visit the affinity centers.

Describe Orientation in 5 words: exciting, fun, vibrant, new, welcoming

Alexis Zepeda

Name: Alexis Zepeda

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Biology

CSUSB Involvement: I am involved at CSUSB in several ways. Firstly, I am a resident at Coyote Village and super involved with everyone living in my community. I am also part of the University Honors Program. I also work at the Writing Center here on campus!

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB so unique is that it is largely a commuter school. Since that is the case there are so many opportunities to get involved on campus and create lifelong friendship, like in clubs.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a first-year or new transfer student? My largest piece of advice would be to get involved on campus. I was very enthusiastic to meet others which made me involved with campus life. For example, I got an on-campus job, I attended all my honors retreats and all of the events hosted by the RAs. It really helped me enjoy my first year here!  

Describe Orientation in 5 words: exciting, new, long, friendly, informational