Melissa Martinez

M.S. Higher Education-Candidate,    Class of 2012

Transfer Student Center Counselor
melissem@uci.edu

I graduated from Cal State Fullerton in 2004 with a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies and had the typical commuter-student experience: I went to class and went home. While I enjoyed my undergraduate experience I did myself a disservice by not becoming involved with my campus community and the various opportunities therein. Looking back, this is one of my greatest regrets, so it is my hope that those of you who are planning to attend UCI or who are currently students will make a point to become involved on campus in some capacity, whether it is with campus organizations, research, or by getting to know your professors, TA’s, and staff members.

My plan upon graduating with my Bachelor’s degree was to become an elementary school teacher, and in 2005 I earned my teaching credential.  In 2006 I began teaching 1st grade, however my career took a different path in 2007 and I began working in higher education as an academic advisor at my alma mater. I immediately fell in love with higher education and have made this my career. Though I am no longer in the traditional classroom setting, I am an educator and work to advocate for students by providing guidance and support during their undergraduate experience.

While I was not a transfer student, I have over four years experience in higher education, most of which has been devoted to the needs of transfer students. I understand the challenges that are facing transfer students, especially in today’s economy. It is my goal to assist you in any way possible so that your transition is smooth, and your time at UC Irvine is enjoyable and meaningful.

Arlene Vargas

M.S. College Counseling

& Student Services
Transfer Student Center Counselor
azvargas@uci.edu

Similar to many transfer students, I did not have the “traditional” college experience as I too began my college years in a community college. However, I now know that life is a journey and you never know where you will end up. During my years at a community college I was involved in extracurricular activities that I did not realize would make an impact on my life. My involvement in college and the support of my instructors was my first exposure to the impact co-curricular activities have on student’s experience.

When I transferred to Long Beach State, I was exposed to the wealth of knowledge and experience one has at a university. My experiences as a Psychology Peer Advisor and as a Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration (SOAR) Advisor were important factors in my decision to choose a career in higher education. I obtained my graduate degree, a Master’s of Science in College Counseling & Student Services, at California State University-Northridge (CSUN) where I also served as a graduate assistant in student involvement and in the development of a career-related program for student assistants.

Now my career has brought me to the beautiful campus of UC-Irvine and I’m truly looking forward to collaborating with campus entities in supporting transfer students needs. We welcome you to visit the Transfer Student Center and become part of a new community.