The greatest resources at Cal Lutheran were my professors and the research opportunities. The research opportunities they offer are amazing and accessible, it is so easy to get hands-on research if you want it, and the professors are so willing and flexible to work with your schedule to include you.
As a junior at Cal Lutheran, I was taking a class in Hispanic Literature, when my professor at the time, Dr. Rafaela Fiore, recognized the potential of my work and encouraged me to present my research in an academic conference. In the remainder of my time at Cal Lutheran, (the Spanish faculty) worked with me and motivated me to continue my research on Afro-Latin literature. That has now become the topic of my PhD dissertation.
The portfolio class allowed me to showcase my best work on a website, prepare for interviews, and have a presentable resume. This experience has significantly contributed to my preparation for success in my career. Cal Lutheran has allowed me to expand my network, learn new workflows in my career, and truly grasp the fundamentals of filmmaking.
This was a significant stretch for me, balancing my full-time job, family commitments, and community involvement. Despite the challenges, I knew pursuing this EMBA was something I would cherish for the rest of my life, and it’s what my mom would have been proud of.
Being a multimedia major gives you the tools to learn a wide variety of skills, but it’s up to the student to put in the work to master them. Learning subjects such as photography to Illustrator to After Effects helps broaden your knowledge when it comes to applying for internships and jobs, which makes students stand out.
The mathematics major at Cal Lutheran was rigorous and engaging. I was able to acquire a vast knowledge of mathematics that allows me to teach all levels of secondary math. I was also supported by top-tier professors who not only helped me develop my mathematical knowledge, but also exposed me to impactful pedagogical strategies that I use in my own classroom.
I enjoyed the scientist practitioner model that the university employed including the emphasis on the practice of open science and the integration of these principles in research. This program helped me achieve my goals by providing me with a solid understanding of scholarly research and the field of clinical psychology.
I was drawn to the hybrid structure of the EdD program, which provided class meeting times that were convenient for a working professional and provided in-person interaction. This program is for anyone who wants to complete their doctorate degree with the support and interaction of an in-person program combined with the convenience of online instruction.
If you want to be a future school counselor and learn from current working professionals in the field of school counseling, Cal Lutheran’s program is a wonderful fit. Using what I have learned in counseling, I was also able to build my professional portfolio to not only serve as a school counselor, but also serve on several national boards within the college counseling field.
My research experience (as a Pearson Scholar for Leadership and Engagement in Global Society under the guidance of Dr. Fiore Urízar) and my Spanish classes gave me skills to guide my career. My study intersected Literature, Art, and Sociology and has led me to excel in graduate school, publish academic articles, and work in art museums.