Meet the Corps
USC CAC Advisors
District
Our USC CAC college advisers are recent college graduates who work full-time at our partner high schools, helping students achieve their college dreams. We are very proud that our 36 advisers hail from diverse backgrounds but are united in their passion to help youth realize their educational potential. Get to know our advisers better by selecting the district tabs.
Vielka Guevara (B.A., University of California, Los Angeles) is a second-year adviser at Bellflower High School with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Central American Studies. She graduated early from her institution, where she primarily spent her three years serving students in K-12 and expanding her passion in the legal field. She spent two years with Teach For America, where she tutored elementary students, focusing on improving their reading, writing, and comprehension skills. This inspired her to continue her work in education as she saw the difference it made in students’ lives when they had access to equitable education and a mentor with a desire to see them succeed. As such, she simultaneously spent two years as a college adviser with UCLA EAOP at Bell High School, where she enjoyed providing guidance and support to the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th-grade students seeking to attend college after high school. As a first-generation student herself, she strives to demonstrate to her students that their upbringing and barriers do not define their ability to succeed after high school. Once she graduated, she spent time at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse with JusticeCorps, where she enjoyed practicing family law and volunteering at the Self-Help Center. This gave her insight into how education and the legal fields intersect, as she saw how legal challenges can affect a student’s upbringing and education. However, as she continues her academic journey at the University of California, Irvine for a Master’s in Criminology, Law, and Society, she hopes to hold onto her passion for education, seeking ways to intersect education and law, and advocating for youth within the criminal justice system. This is what drew her to USC CAC, which allowed her to continue serving many who come from marginalized backgrounds like herself.
Stephany Reyes (B.A. California State University, Long Beach) is a second-year USC College Advising Corps adviser serving Mayfair High School in the Bellflower Unified School District, which is also her alma mater as a part of the Class of 2020. She is a 2025 graduate of California State University, Long Beach, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, and is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Educational Counseling at the University of Southern California. Prior to attending CSULB, Stephany earned a double Associate’s Degree for Transfer from Cerritos College in Psychology and Social & Behavioral Sciences. During her time there, she began developing her skills through assisting students as a Student Ambassador for 3 years– earning the distinction of Ambassador of the Year in 2024. She developed her passion for education and helping others from a young age as she navigated school as a first-generation student who grew up in Mexico and moved to the United States at the age of 8. She seeks to use her ability to speak both English and Spanish to connect with families and help them participate in their student’s transition to higher education, regardless of their background. As a first-generation student and through her prior experience, she understands the varying needs of a diverse student population. As a USC CAC advisor, she seeks to leverage her background, experiences and tools at her disposal to help students find the best pathway to higher education for their goals and needs.
Carolina De La Luz (B.S., University of California, Davis), is a first-year College Adviser serving Compton High School. At UC Davis, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Development alongside a double minor in Education & Accounting. As a first-generation college graduate and former student served by the USC College Advising Corps, Carolina understands both the importance and challenges of pursuing higher education. Throughout her undergraduate career, she served the multilingual student population at Davis Senior High School by providing 1:1 tutoring services in subjects such as English, History, and ELD. Within this role, she was able to grow in both a personal and professional manner as she held the role of Lead Tutor for two academic years. Gaining more experience on the logistical side of operations, Carolina became interested in the work that going behind ensuring that every student has access to the adequate resources in order to succeed. Through USC CAC, Carolina hopes to become a mentor for the students she serves, drawing from her own lived experiences to help relieve the uncertainty that comes with pursuing higher education.
Fatima Hernandez (B.A., San Diego State University), placed at Centennial High School in Compton, California, is a first-year College Advisor. She graduated from SDSU with a bachelor’s degree in Economics and a minor in Spanish. While she completed her undergraduate studies, Fatima remained a dedicated member of the Women in Business Collective, where she continued developing her interests in leadership and professional growth. Growing up in South Los Angeles, she spent nearly 7 years as a member of the LAPD Cadet Leadership Program before continuing her involvement for an additional 2 years as an Associate Advisor. Through her years of working with youth, Fatima came to recognize that many students are “hidden gems” within Watts and surrounding communities, students with potential who simply need someone to recognize it, challenge them, and help them see what is possible. As a first-generation college graduate leading her own path, Fatima understands the value of having guidance while navigating unfamiliar opportunities. Her experience showed her that mentorship can do more than help a student reach a single goal, it can help them develop the confidence to accomplish their dreams. With the USC College Advising Corps and at Centennial, she hopes to give back to her community and be more than a resource for college applications. She strives to be an advocate, mentor, and source of encouragement who empowers students to recognize their potential, create paths of their own, and become the best versions of themselves.
Angel Nwosu (B.A. University of California, Berkeley), placed at Compton Early College High School, is a first-year adviser with a bachelor’s degree in Integrative Biology with an emphasis in Human Biology. During her time at UC Berkeley, Angel developed a passion for mentorship and expanding access to higher education. Through the Black Recruitment and Retention Center (BRRC) at Berkeley, she mentored high school seniors with their college applications and UC Personal Insight Questions. She also helped organize Bay Area College Tours (BACT), providing low-income and first-generation students with opportunities to visit college campuses throughout the Bay Area. Angel also served as Co-Founder and Co-President of UC Berkeley’s first Black Pre-Dental Association, where she created mentorship and professional development opportunities for students of color interested in healthcare professions. As a first-generation college student herself, Angel understands how challenging it can be to navigate higher education without access to guidance or resources. Her experiences showed her the importance of having someone to answer questions and help students see themselves in spaces they may not have considered. She hopes to be that person for her students by helping them explore their interests, navigate the college process, and feel confident pursuing their futures.
Kimberly Velasco (B.A. University of California, Davis) is a first-year College Adviser serving Centennial High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UC Davis. As a first-generation college graduate, Kimberly deeply values the power of higher education and the doors it opens for students to pursue their goals and aspirations. She has always believed in the transformative power of education to positively impact lives. Driven by this passion, she pursued a career dedicated to serving her community. Kimberly has experience as a Peer Advisor, where she provided socio-emotional support to underrepresented youth, and as a Math Intervention Tutor, helping students strengthen their academic skills and confidence. Kimberly often tells her students to “reach for the stars,” reflecting her belief that every student has the potential to achieve their dreams when supported by encouraging mentors. As a College Adviser, Kimberly’s goal is to uplift and inspire students by showing them that higher education is within reach and that they have the potential to achieve anything they set their minds to. She hopes to make a meaningful impact on her students, knowing firsthand how life-changing a supportive mentor can be. Kimberly is excited to guide and empower her students as they navigate their future journeys.
Victoria Cardenas (B.S., University of La Verne) is a second-year adviser with a bachelor’s degree in International Business and Language with a concentration in Spanish. As a first-generation college graduate and former Upward Bound participant, Victoria understands firsthand the challenges students may encounter throughout their educational journeys. At the University of La Verne, she developed a passion for student advocacy through her roles as Vice President of Marketing for the Associated Students and Promotions Coordinator for the Academic Success Center. In these positions, she represented student perspectives, advocated for their needs, and connected them with resources that supported their academic success and sense of belonging. Victoria joined the USC College Advising Corps to give back and provide students with the guidance and encouragement she received throughout her own journey. Deeply committed to educational equity, she strives to build authentic relationships, remove barriers, and create opportunities for all students to succeed. She is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Educational Counseling at USC and hopes to continue supporting and advocating for students at higher education institutions.
Keila Gallardo (B.A., California State University, Northridge) is a second-year College Advisor with the USC College Advising Corps, currently serving students at Clark Magnet High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Development with an emphasis in Applied Developmental Science in three years, graduating Summa Cum Laude. As a first-generation Latina college graduate, Keila understands the struggles of navigating higher education and is passionate about helping students and families feel prepared and supported as they pursue their academic goals. Throughout her undergraduate career, Keila gained experience working with students across a wide range of age groups. Her experiences include volunteering with elementary-aged students, working in a middle school, and interning at her college’s student success center. She also served as a Peer Academic Leader at California State University, Northridge, where she supported fellow Child and Adolescent Development students with degree planning, academic progress, and graduation goals. She has always been enthusiastic to work in the field of education and hopes to continue her journey in this field.
Merrick Hoel (B.A., Occidental College) is a second-year advisor placed at Crescenta Valley High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in art history and was a committed student-athlete on Occidental’s women’s cross country and track teams. Through her experience as a student-athlete, she developed strong skills in time management, leadership, and teamwork. During her senior year, Merrick conducted honors thesis research through Occidental’s Summer Research Program, examining the underrepresentation of racial and gender groups in American textbooks. Combined with her experience tutoring underserved kindergarten students, this work fueled her passion for expanding educational equity. Merrick believes education is a powerful tool that everyone deserves equitable access to. In her first year with the Corps, she supported nearly 600 senior students as they navigated their post-secondary plans. She built meaningful relationships with her students, helping them feel prepared, confident, and excited about their futures. Inspired by USC CAC’s mission, she strives to connect students with resources, foster a sense of belonging, and empower them to pursue higher education. For the 2026–27 school year, she is supporting a caseload of approximately 700 seniors as they prepare for life beyond high school. Merrick will be applying to MSW programs this fall, with the goal of continuing to approach her work with curiosity, examining educational barriers, and uplifting students from diverse backgrounds and experiences. She is deeply thankful for the opportunities and relationships she has gained through USC CAC and looks forward to carrying the lessons from this work into her final year with the Corps and into her future endeavors.
Kelly Launchbaugh is a lifelong Los Angeles county resident, currently pursuing her M.A., in sociology, after obtaining a B.A. in sociology from CSU, Fullerton. Having studied educational sociology and working in schools through non-profit work and now as a college advisor, she strives to continue that journey with her M.A., eventually hoping to become a community college professor. As a first-generation and disabled student, education was always on the forefront of her mind, and working in the community only solidified her passion for working to make the education system more equitable and accessible for all students.
Katelyn Villon (B.A. University of California, San Diego) is a first-year advisor serving Glendale High School. A proud first-generation student, she graduated from UCSD with a bachelor’s degree in Communication. Through her time serving as a Student Ambassador for UCSD’s Online Student Experience, Katelyn developed a passion for educational access. She supported 3,700 students in UCSD’s Mentor Collective program, helping first-year and transfer students transition into the higher-education landscape. She also served as a peer mentor under the program, connecting six first-year and transfer students to campus resources. By providing individualized guidance, facilitating campus outreach, and assisting administrative operations, Katelyn equipped the skills to build student awareness, enhance student retention, and ensure successful relationships within a diverse population. She is dedicated to equity, access, and inclusion within education, and is committed to student success. With USC CAC, Katelyn is excited to continue her work and support students as they pursue their postsecondary goals.
Jasmine Escobar (B.A., California State University, Long Beach), a second-year adviser at Hawthorne Math and Science Academy, holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in child development and family studies, which she earned at California State University, Long Beach. She is a first-generation college graduate, which motivated her to help many students with a similar background to her own. Over the summer of her Sophomore year, she dedicated her time to working with young children at Camp Awesome, a summer beach camp. Here she would find her passion for working and helping others, especially children. In the summer after graduation, she volunteered for USC Allied-Health Programs, where she was able to interact with high school students interested in taking college-level classes to become certified nursing assistants, dental assistants, and medical assistants. This involvement sparked an interest in helping students pursue higher education and ultimately succeed. Being a resource for high school students who are from underserved and underrepresented backgrounds motivates Jasmine to share her knowledge of higher education with others. USC College Advising Corps presents her the perfect opportunity to give back to her community and make a difference in younger generations.
Janet Pasillas (B.A. University of California-Riverside) is a second-year advisor at a newly launched program serving students in Hawthorne Unified School District who serves students across three middle schools: Bud Carson, Prairie Vista, and Hawthorne Middle School. Janet earned her bachelor’s degrees in Education and Liberal Studies from University of California-Riverside. Throughout her college career, Janet worked as a College Corps fellow supporting low-income students in Riverside. She also volunteered with the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program in Inglewood, serving students between the ages of 5-16. These experiences inspired her passion for supporting underrepresented youth and helping students pursue their goals. Her work with USC CAC has allowed her to continue advancing her commitment to serving underrepresented youth. As she enters her second year of advising, Janet is helping lead a newly launched pilot program in Hawthorne Unified School District. Through this initiative, she plans to continue demystifying the college process and making college knowledge more accessible to middle school students.
Zachary Allen (B.A. California State University, Long Beach) is a second year advisor serving Lakewood High School. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology after transferring from Golden West College. Zachary then continued his journey of higher education by enrolling in Orange Coast College’s Aviation Sciences program and ultimately earning his private pilot license. Zachary's experience navigating his local community colleges strengthened his beliefs in the power of higher education to further one’s academic and career goals. He believes it is important for students to take full advantage of the opportunities and resources that are available in college. Prior to entering this role with the USC College Advising Corps, Zachary worked as a youth program coordinator for an underserved community at Oak View Elementary School in Huntington Beach. This is where he discovered his passion for working with youth and guiding them through the education system.This role also reinforced his belief in keeping the youth engaged in academics and allowed him to appreciate the value of mentorship. Now, with USC CAC, Zachary aims to assist students in reaching their goals after high school and providing them with the skills needed to succeed outside of the classroom. He is also currently continuing his academic journey at California State University, Dominguez Hills and pursuing a Master’s of Science in Counseling.
Piper Bailey (B.A., University of California, Los Angeles) is a second-year college adviser serving Lakewood High School in Long Beach Unified School District. She transferred to UCLA in 2023 from MiraCosta College, where she earned Associate’s degrees in English and Liberal Arts. At MiraCosta, Piper worked with the Honors Society, supporting students with contracts, events, and mentorship, and served as a Student Ambassador, guiding high school students through college applications and transitions. These experiences inspired her to pursue a minor in Education Studies and a career in college access and student affairs. At UCLA, Piper continued supporting transfer students as Academic Advisor for Chi Alpha Psi, mentoring first-year transfers through academic transitions, and as a Peer Advisor for the Center for Community College Partnerships, assisting West Los Angeles College students with financial aid, housing, and applications. Piper’s work also spans K–12 education, including summers with Galileo and the YMCA. Her experiences navigating the California Community College system and supporting students at multiple levels have strengthened her understanding of student needs, academic pathways, and community resources. As a College Advisor, Piper is committed to helping high school students explore higher education opportunities and successfully navigate the college journey.
Diana Figueroa (B.A., California State Polytechnic University, Pomona) is a first-year college advisor currently serving at Millikan High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies within three years and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Higher Education at California State University, Fullerton, where she is focusing on equity, access and inclusion in higher education to better support diverse student populations. During her undergraduate studies, Diana served as a Student Success Ambassador for the College of Education and Integrative Studies for two years, where she provided one-on-one guidance to college students, assisting with academic planning, connecting them to campus resources and supporting campus events and engagement initiatives. Through this experience, she discovered her passion for guiding others through their educational journeys. She also worked as a Registration Assistant for summer orientations, guiding incoming and transfer students through the enrollment process and helping them begin their college journey with confidence. These experiences deepened her understanding of the challenges students face and strengthened her commitment to their success. Diana is passionate about helping students recognize their potential and guiding them through important educational decisions. She strives to ensure all students feel supported, confident and capable as they navigate their path toward higher education and achieve their goals.
Kate Gonzalez (B.A., California State University, Los Angeles) is a second-year College Advisor at McBride High School, dedicated to supporting students as they navigate their future pathways. A proud first-generation college graduate, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication with a minor in Business Management. Kate is passionate about helping students access the resources they need to succeed and guiding them toward paths that align with their goals. During her undergraduate years, Kate served as a Peer Leader at California State University, Los Angeles, supporting incoming first-year students by sharing her experiences and strategies to foster a sense of belonging and academic success. She provided one-on-one mentoring, led outreach initiatives, and facilitated workshops on college readiness, scholarships, and career exploration. Kate also participated in College Corps and Special Olympics—programs centered on youth empowerment and leadership development. These experiences deepened her passion for student advocacy and supporting students to succeed academically and personally. As a USC College Advisor, she guides students through the college application process, builds their confidence and skills, and looks forward to helping them turn their dreams into reality.
Jennyfer Gonzalez-Perez (B.A., University of California, Riverside) is a second-year college advisor serving at Millikan High School while also pursuing her Master of Science in School & College Counseling at California State University, Dominguez Hills. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Education, Society, and Human Development and was actively involved in campus life during her undergraduate years. Jennyfer worked in Residential Life, Housing Services, and participated in various campus organizations. In these roles, she supported a diverse student body by creating inclusive programs, providing valuable resources, building a sense of belonging, and even managing one of UCR’s mascots to promote school spirit among students, alumni, and staff. Her work with college students, as well as her own high school experience, inspired her to pursue a career in student advising. As a first-generation college student born and raised in East Los Angeles, Jennyfer understands firsthand the challenges students in underserved communities face. Motivated by her personal journey, she aspires to become a high school counselor dedicated to helping students recognize the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Through her role with USC CAC, she views this opportunity as an important step toward that goal, allowing her to serve students who reflect her own background and experiences. She is excited to be known as “Ms. Jenny” and looks forward to being a supportive and reliable presence in the academic journeys of her students.
Hannah Jacobo (M.B.A., Purdue Global University) is a second-year advisor at Jordan High School in Long Beach, California, passionate about supporting students throughout their post-secondary education journey. Hannah earned her Masters of Business Administration from Purdue Global University through the Disney Aspire Program. Before her graduate studies, Hannah completed her bachelor’s degree in Public Health with a concentration in Nutrition at California State University, Fullerton. During that time, she worked as an Applied Behavioral Specialist, supporting children with autism—a role that deepened her commitment to making a difference in young lives. She was actively involved in the Puente Program, which played a transformative role in guiding her through the college application process and helped shape her aspirations for higher education. That experience inspired her to give back, motivating her to become part of the USC College Advising Corps. Now, Hannah brings her diverse background in education, health, and mentorship to empower students on their college journey. Drawing from her own experiences, she is committed to equipping students with the knowledge, confidence, and resources they need to succeed.
Quincy Joo (B.A. University of California, Los Angeles) is a first-year advisor serving at Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo High in Long Beach. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Public Affairs with a minor in Asian American Studies. Quincy spent his time at UCLA as a part of Samahang Pilipino Advancing Community Empowerment (SPACE), where he advised local high school and community college students through their educational and holistic journeys. His experience navigating both 4-year university and Community College pathways has helped build an understanding of the needs of students, no matter their path. Quincy also had opportunities to serve as an intern with the City of Los Angeles Council Member Marqueece Harris-Dawson, become a policy fellow with the Community Investment for Families Department, and compete as a member of the UCLA Wrestling Team. During his time working with students at schools like El Camino College, he developed a deep care for the importance of educational access and how transformative a system of support can be in uplifting students. Wanting to be that support system for others, he was drawn to USC CAC, where he looks to continue helping students to their own goals and dreams. Short Bio: Quincy Joo (B.A. University of California, Los Angeles) is a first-year advisor serving at Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo High in Long Beach. Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Public Affairs with a minor in Asian American Studies, he spent much of college advising local community college and high school students through their academic and holistic journeys as a member of an educational access program on campus. Hoping to continue this work, he joined USC CAC, hoping to empower students to find confidence in pursuing their goals and dreams.
Ellie Kwon (B.S., University of California, Davis) is a first-year advisor at Wilson High School with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Throughout her four years at Davis, she worked as a Tour Guide, showing prospective students and their families around campus and sharing her own experiences as a student. She later served on the Recruitment team, assisting with application reviews and leading group and panel interviews for prospective tour guides. Additionally, she worked as a Peer Advisor for students in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Philosophy, and Science and Technology Studies, helping students navigate their academic journeys, explore their interests, and connect with the resources they needed to succeed. In her final year, she was selected as the Lead Peer Advisor, giving her the opportunity to further support and mentor fellow students. Outside of these roles, Ellie gained experience working in research labs, served as a camp counselor, and was an active member of a women’s honors society, where she had the opportunity to further develop her skills in research, mentorship, and community-building. These experiences fostered her passion for helping students in an academic setting and ensuring that all students have the resources and support they need to achieve their goals. Although most of her experience working with students has been in higher education, Ellie is excited to work in a high school setting, where she can help students make decisions about their futures, explore their options, and feel more confident as they begin their journeys after high school. In her free time, she loves rearranging her apartment, trying out new restaurants, and picking up new hobbies.
Savannah Labarda (B.A., University of California, Irvine), placed at Sato Academy of Mathematics & Science, is a first-year adviser with a bachelor’s degree in Psychological Sciences and Criminology. She is also working toward Spanish fluency, having taken coursework in the language during her final two years in college and continuing her studies today. At UCI, Savannah served as a learning assistant where she worked alongside professors to deliver course content to students. This experience sparked her passion for teaching and supporting student success. She later mentored five high school students, guiding them through key academic and personal milestones. Savannah’s own journey began in high school, when she enrolled in her first community college course and discovered a deep love for learning. This passion has since grown into dedication to advocating for higher education access for all students. As a first-generation college graduate, she is eager to inspire students to explore the educational opportunities available to them. For Savannah, a love of learning has been the guiding force in both her personal and professional life. She has experienced the richness of higher education and is eager to guide students towards opportunities that will help them thrive and reach their full potential.
My name is Jackeline Lopez, and I am a first-year College Advisor currently serving at Browning Early College High School. I recently graduated from California State University, Long Beach, where I earned my B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Human Development. During my undergraduate years, I worked as a research assistant studying cognitive abilities, which sparked my interest in understanding how students learn, grow, and develop, and how I can support their educational journeys. During my undergraduate years, I also volunteered with Camp Savio as both a counselor and head counselor, where I worked with elementary school students. Through my years of service, I developed my leadership skills and earned the trust of my peers and campers through patience, empathy, and integrity. As I took on greater responsibilities, including serving as a head counselor for the second-grade group and helping lead the girls’ program, I mentored young high school volunteers, introduced new ideas, and helped create an environment built on respect, encouragement, and teamwork. My experiences working with students in a volunteer setting helped me discover a passion for supporting students in an educational environment. As a first-generation college graduate, I understand what it is like to search for guidance while navigating the college application process and the many steps involved in pursuing higher education. My own experiences have motivated me to become a source of support and encouragement for students as they navigate their own educational journeys. Through my role with USC CAC, I hope to advocate for students and help create a safe and empowering environment where they can recognize their potential and feel confident pursuing their goals. I am excited to continue working in education and to be a supportive presence for my students as they explore their paths toward college and beyond.
Jewel Loya, placed at Woodrow Wilson High School, is a first-year advisor with a B.A. in English from the University of California, Irvine. At UCI, Jewel was honored to receive the Undergraduate Research Opportunities/Humanities Core Research Award (2022), the award for Excellent Upper-Division Academic Writing in Humanities and Arts (2025), and the UCI Humanities Honors Program Outstanding Thesis Prize (2025). These recognitions reflect Jewel’s strengths as a critical thinker and writer, but also her commitment to the ethos of equity and tolerance upheld by the liberal arts. For her, this ethos is on par with USC CAC’s work expanding public access to higher education. Jewel’s experience as a student curatorial assistant at the Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art has prepared her well for addressing and forging connections with diverse populations, while her time as an Undergraduate Peer Tutor at UCI’s Center for Excellence in Writing and Communication has cultivated her skills in supporting students through unfamiliar academic landscapes. After graduating, she spent a year as a Ph.D. candidate at Rutgers University, where she learned about the intricacies of academic life while refining her skills as a reader and writer. Her time in the academy, marked by the guidance of selfless and passionate professors, has inspired her to use her position as a CAC advisor to make a similar impact in the lives of students. As a member of the Corps, Jewel hopes her contributions to post-secondary advising will be defined by her scholarly edge.
Diana Ramirez (B.A., University of California, Irvine), placed at Long Beach Polytechnic High School, is a first-year advisor with dual bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Social Policy & Public Service. During her senior year at UCI, she worked at the Student Outreach and Retention (SOAR) Center as the Graduate Access Preparation Program (GAPP) Intern, where she supported undergraduate students in preparing for graduate school and life after college. Through this experience, she discovered her passion for advising students from underrepresented backgrounds. Through the Campuswide Honors Collegium at UCI, Diana completed her honors and field study thesis while working at the SOAR Center. Her research explored the psychological, social, and cultural factors influencing Latinas’ aspirations to attend graduate school. As part of her field study, she completed over 300 hours at the SOAR Center, gaining firsthand experience supporting students as they navigated their educational goals. After graduating from UCI, Diana became a USC College Advising Corps (USC CAC) advisor, where she hopes to pass on the knowledge and guidance she gained from her own mentors. She is passionate about demystifying higher education for underserved and underrepresented youth and making higher education more accessible. Diana believes that education is a right, not a privilege, and hopes to make a meaningful impact on the students she serves through USC CAC.
Andre Scott (B.A. California State University, Fullerton) is a Second-year USC CAC college advisor at Jordan High School with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration - Marketing. Prior to transferring to CSUF, Andre attended Glendale Community College, where he earned his associate’s degree in Business Administration and also was the Captain of the Men’s Basketball team. While in his college studies and after, he explored his passion for working with youth by advising friends and family members like his younger cousins and brother through grade school, life after school and applying to college. It was meaningful to him to see the difference that he would make in their lives and always looked back at if he would’ve had the same support. As a college student-athlete, Andre experienced what it was like to be unsure about what he wanted to do in life after basketball and postsecondary education. This has inspired him to give back to the community by helping students and student-athletes like him gain knowledge about higher education so that they can create and achieve their goals. By joining the USC CAC he hopes that he can provide students with the support they need to be successful after high school and help them overcome any obstacles that stand between them and their vision.
Jazlynn Shearer (B.A., University of California, Berkeley) is a 2nd year college adviser with USC’s College Advising Corps, where she supports students in navigating the college-going process and preparing for life beyond high school. She began her higher education journey at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, before transferring to UC Berkeley, where she earned her B.A. in Sociology and a Certificate in Entrepreneurship through the UC Berkeley Extension Program. She later earned an Advanced Certificate in Communication Studies, with a focus on research and leadership, from San José State University. A former Division I Track and Field athlete at UNLV, UC Berkeley, and San José State University, Jazlynn’s experiences balancing academics, athletics, and personal growth shaped her passion for mentorship, education, and student development. Having personally experienced the transfer process and the demands of collegiate athletics, Jazlynn is passionate about helping students identify opportunities that align with their academic, personal, and career goals. Through her work with the College Advising Corps, she supports students, particularly those who may be underserved or navigating the college process without extensive guidance, in exploring higher education pathways, campus resources, financial aid, campus culture, and opportunities beyond the degree. Jazlynn is committed to empowering students to make informed decisions about their futures and believes that access to the right information, resources, and mentorship can transform a student’s educational journey. Through advising and mentorship, she strives to inspire students to recognize their potential, confidently pursue their goals, and reach their highest potential.
Sota Shimatani (B.A., University of California, Irvine) is a first-year College Advisor at Cabrillo High School in Long Beach, California. A former transfer student, Sota attended El Camino Community College before earning his bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UC Irvine. His personal experience navigating the transfer process allows him to connect with students from diverse academic backgrounds and offer guidance rooted in firsthand understanding. At UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education, he held a leadership role assisting students with navigating resources and events, responding to their direct needs as a point of contact. These experiences not only strengthened his ability to provide reliable support, but it ultimately inspired him to pursue a career in student affairs, organizations and success. He also explored his creative side as a radio host and program producer at KUCI 88.9 FM, producing live programs and building connections with campus organizations. Sota is committed to helping students feel confident in their educational paths, and empowering students with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed beyond high school. He looks forward to continuing to grow in his role, and supporting students in making informed decisions as they take the next steps toward their goals.
Adrie Stewart-Twiggs (B.A., California State University, Fullerton) is a first-year college advisor serving Renaissance High School for the Arts under Long Beach USD. While pursuing her Bachelor’s in Child and Adolescent Studies, and minor in Asian American Studies, she worked toward navigating the K-12 educational system through the Boys and Girls Club. Once graduating, she began volunteering for Minds Matter, a college access program dedicated to mentoring highly determined, low-resource high school students. There, her passion in serving high school youth became more evident as her work with students through academic planning, coordinated enrichment activities, and weekly check-ins reflected the potential she saw in each of them. As a proud first-generation college student, moving from Hawaii to California right after high school pushed her to navigate college and life at a rapid pace. Her experiences played a part in her growing enthusiasm for serving our youth and ensuring they have the resources and skills needed to pave their own paths. Adrie hopes to continue to pass along her knowledge and wisdom as one of many support systems students can count on!
Daisy Watters (B.S. and B.A. University of California, Los Angeles) is a second-year adviser at the California Academy of Mathematics and Science (CAMS) with bachelor’s degrees in cognitive science and Chinese, and a specialization in computing. She was also a Psychology Departmental Honors student, and completed a senior thesis investigating naturalistic video selection for predicting team outcomes. Outside of academics, Daisy spent her college career in a variety of student clubs, including the International Urban Sustainability Student Corps (IUSSC)—an environmental research club—where she rose to president in her senior year. In this position, she gained experience with leadership, crowdfunding, and event planning, finding fulfillment through strengthening connections with other club members and helping peers build their undergraduate academic profiles. During her time at UCLA, Daisy also tutored high school students from Taiwan in English, practicing reading, writing, listening, and speaking, and assisting with the college application process for international universities. Providing support to students during such a vital and stressful time inspired her current involvement in USC’s College Advising Corps, where she can work locally to help students reach their full potential. By supplying resources, imparting personal experience, and offering words of encouragement, she hopes that she can mitigate the familiar stress and pressure surrounding post-graduation plans and help each student pursue their goals.
Elijah Desrosiers (B.F.A University of Southern California), placed at Diego Rivera Green Design Learning Complex STEAM Academy, is a first-year adviser with a bachelor of fine arts degree in acting for the stage and screen. During her time at USC, she served as the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for The Women’s Network, and was a member of the Upsilon Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc., a public service sorority. Before this, she served as a tutor and assistant teacher, helping underserved high school students learn English and reading comprehension in Newark, NJ. This taught her patience, empathy, and leadership. This is what drew her to towards working with USC CAC. She has always loved helping students create successful realities and achieve their goals. She is excited to make a difference in the lives of more students!
Zaira Rodriguez (B.A. University of California, Irvine) is a first-year college advisor serving Firebaugh High School. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education sciences and is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Post-secondary administration and student affairs at the University of Southern California. At UCI, Zaira spent her time supporting the diverse student population and providing them with the university resources for their first years. She worked administrative roles, residential life, and student support services. Through her experiences navigating the university systems and supporting students is where her passion for helping students in higher education grew. As a first-generation college graduate, Zaira is determined to serve students ensuring that they are equipped for any plans they may pursue after graduation. Through her role at USC CAC, she hopes to guide students to places they want to go and make a lasting impact in her community.
Kei-Dee Romero is a second-year advisor at Lynwood High School, dedicated to demystifying higher education for students. She began her college journey at El Camino College, where she participated in the Honors Transfer Program. After transferring to UCLA, she obtained a bachelor's degree in Political Science with a minor in Global Studies, graduating with College Honors. During her time at UCLA, Kei-Dee enriched her studies with two internships in Washington, D.C., and a semester abroad in Madrid, Spain. These diverse experiences have shaped her interests in the intersection between public policy and education and fuel her desire to work directly with communities. As a first-generation college student and daughter of Mexican immigrants, Kei-Dee deeply understands the importance of family, community, and mentorship in achieving academic success. Now, as a USC college advisor, she aims to draw from her personal journey to guide students toward the wealth of opportunities available to them in higher education.
Ashleigh Gilfort (BFA AMDA College of the Performing Arts), placed at Paramount High School, is a second-year adviser with a background in acting and a deep commitment to educational equity. She began her college journey at Bard College at Simon’s Rock when she was 16, giving her a unique perspective on the complexities within the college application process. Ashleigh’s passion for learning and her goal of working in college admissions drives her mission to expand access to higher education. Through her work with USC CAC, Ashleigh aims to demystify the college process and help her students make an informed decision about their future. She believes that everyone has a place in higher education, and that no student’s background should be a barrier to their success.
Janae Lopez (B.A., University of California, Irvine) is a first-year college advisor serving Odyssey STEM Academy with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She participated in research studies examining the well-being of learning specialists and contributed to a poster presentation at the Innovations in Medical Education Online Conference. While attending UCI, Janae served as Vice President of Advocacy for the Residential Housing Association, which sparked her passion for advocacy. In this role, she led student advocacy initiatives through workshops, focus groups, and town hall meetings. Additionally, she worked as a Behavioral Interventionist, where she advocated for children with autism by implementing individualized ABA treatment plans and used quantitative data to determine long-term behavioral patterns. Janae aims to utilize her background in advocacy as she steps into her role with USC CAC. She is excited to contribute to the success of the students she serves in their postsecondary education and looks forward to the next step in her professional development.
Ashley Aguilera (B.A. University of California, Irvine) is a first-year College Adviser at Edgewood High School. She began her college journey at Rio Hondo College, where she earned an Associate’s degree in Psychology, before transferring to UC Irvine and earning her bachelor’s degree in Psychology. While at UC Irvine, Ashley interned with Well-Suited College and Career Planning, where she supported high school students with their postsecondary plans. As a first-generation college graduate, Ashley understands firsthand how overwhelming the college process can be. This experience has shaped her passion for educational equity and her desire to help students feel supported and confident as they plan for their futures.
Yasmin Hernandez (B.A. University of California, Los Angeles), placed at West Covina High School, is a first-year college adviser with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Education Studies. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Educational Counseling at the University of La Verne, where she is continuing to develop the knowledge and skills needed to support students throughout their academic and postsecondary journeys. During her time at UCLA, Yasmin discovered her passion for educational access and helping students navigate their paths to higher education. She completed a remote internship with Well-Suited College and Career Planning, where she mentored a high school student through career exploration and goal-setting, an experience that strengthened her interest in working closely with students in a supportive and counseling-focused role. She later served as an Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) Bruin Advisor at Montebello High School, where she worked with students in grades 9–12, supporting them with college and career exploration, college applications, financial aid, personal statements, and preparing for life after high school. Through these experiences, Yasmin saw firsthand the impact that meaningful guidance and encouragement can have on a student’s confidence and future. Her passion for helping students recognize their potential and explore the opportunities available to them ultimately led her to the USC College Advising Corps. At West Covina High School, Yasmin is excited to build meaningful relationships with students, celebrate their accomplishments, and support them as they work toward their educational and career goals.
