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College of Liberal Arts First-Gen Faculty, Staff, and Administrators
Are you First-Gen?
Faculty
Dr. Aubrie Adams
Associate Professor, Communication Studies
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Communication Studies with a specialty in technology and society
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Universities offer a treasure trove of resources designed to help students succeed no matter what kind of background they come from. In my own academic career, I frequently used services like tutoring and writing centers, counseling services, financial aid, career services, and cultural centers. It's a strength to acknowledge an area you could learn more about and these resources can help provide you with the tools, knowledge, and skills to navigate your academic journey!
Dr. Ryan Alaniz
Professor, Social Sciences Department
Degree(s) Earned
M.A. Latin American Studies with specialty in Central America; Ph.D. Sociology with specialties in social movements, disasters, and community
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Find supportive colleagues to support you through the process. You are not alone.
Dr. Lucy Bencharit
Assistant Professor, Psychology and Child Development
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Psychology (Affective Science)
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Your experiences and background will give you strength and grit in college. Use those experiences to learn from and inform others around you!
Dr. Jay Bettergarcia
Assistant Professor, Psychology and Child Development
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology specialty in LGBTQ+ populations and diversity training
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
You rock! It can be challenging to figure it all out, but reach out to supportive mentors across campus. Get involved and make a place for yourself on campus. Know that if you are struggling, you are not alone — We're here to help!
Dr. Cynthia Breaux
Lecturer, Psychology and Child Development
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology with a specialty in women's health
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Rely on at least one other person for support when you feel discouraged!
Dr. Shawn Burn
Professor Emerita, PSYCHOLOGY AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Applied Social Psychology
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Remind yourself that you deserve to be at Cal Poly, and be persistent even when there are setbacks or challenges. Setbacks and challenges don't mean you're not cut out for college. Don't let anything or anyone stop you from getting your degree.
Lana Caplan
Associate Professor, Art and Design
Degree(s) Earned
MFA specializing in Photography and Film/Video
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Seek out mentors to help give you advice on how to navigate planning your education and how to start your career. There are so many great and knowledgeable people here wanting to help!
Henry Danielson
Lecturer, Psychology and Child Development
Degree(s) Earned
Educational Technology & Child Development & Cybersecurity
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Hang Tough! You can change lives and have impact on others! Find a mentor professor to connect with we are here to have fun and support you in the tough times! Peace Love and computing! I have been teaching at CalPoly in for 16 years! One of my professors told me to come back and teach here and I took them up on that! You got this!
Dr. Nikhil Deb
Assistant Professor, Social Sciences
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Sociology with a speciality in environmental sociology and political economy and globalization
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Don't underestimate your power and potential. We are meant to endure our struggles with fortitude.
Dr. Chris Den Hartog
Professor, Political Science
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Political Science, specialization in American and California Government and Politics
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
If you get a low grade on something, don’t take as a sign that you’re not a good enough student to do well in college. Every student has ups and downs academically—it’s not the end of the world, and expecting yourself to be perfect all the time is not only unrealistic, but is often harmful. Just keep in mind that you wouldn’t be at Cal Poly if you weren’t a good student, and treat a disappointing grade as an opportunity to figure out how you can do better—learning to learn from a mistake or a subpar performance is one of the most valuable skills a person can develop in life, and a key to success not only academically, but in many walks of life.
Ramón Esquivel
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, Theatre and Dance
Degree(s) Earned
MFA Creative Writing (playwriting, screenwriting, fiction)
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Read up on psychologist Carol Dweck's theory on fixed and growth mindsets of learning. It will help you recognize that learning requires struggle and difficulty because your brain is doing thinking that it never did before. You may feel that you need to figure everything out on your own, and that the solution to encountering difficulty is simply to work harder. That just leads to more stress, a growing sense of failure, and possibly a feeling of not belonging. (This is called "Imposter Syndrome.") Recognize that Cal Poly and other universities have resources and people to support you. Use those resources — especially because you and your families are paying for them! Work with writing coaches to improve your writing, get to know the librarians who can guide you with research, speak with counselors when you're having a tough time, and form study groups with friends to hold each other accountable. Most importantly, make an appointment to speak directly to your Instructor for every class you take, for every quarter you are enrolled. Going to office hours is particularly important if you are in a larger class. It will help you understand course content, allow you and your Instructor to get to know each other, and always remind you are not on your own on your learning journey.
Dr. Francisco Fernflores
Professor, Philosophy
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. Philosophy of Science
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Be sure to talk to your professors during office hours about anything related to doing well in university. Making good decisions about course selection and lots of other issues related to being a successful university student was challenging. I made lots of mistakes partly because I did not really have anyone in my family who understood my university experience. Fortunately, a couple of professors helped me out tremendously, and that made all the difference.
Dr. Martha Galvan Mandujano
Associate Professor, World Languages
Degree(s) Earned
PhD in Spanish (Latin American Literature, Central American as well. First generation in family to go to and graduate college
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Always pursue your dreams. If you encounter obstacles never give up! You can find people that are willing to help you if you struggle in some areas. You can also find helpful organizations and resources.
Maria Garcia Velasco
Lecturer, World Languages
Degree(s) Earned
M.A. in Spanish Language and Culture of Spain
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
The most important thing I can tell a student is to be kind and love themselves. Success is a process, not an isolated event, it takes time to achieve the goals. Never hesitate to ask for help to your instructor, don't feel intimidated asking questions or making a mistake. We all learn from our mistakes, in fact, probably, it is the best way we learn.
Dr. Brenda Helmbrecht
Professor, English
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Rhetoric and Composition
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Be kind and patient with yourself. It will take time to find your strengths and talents as you navigate a system and culture very different from what you have experienced before.
Dr. Dawn Janke
Lecturer, English; Office of Writing and Learning Initiatives
Degree(s) Earned
Ed.D. in Organizational Change and Leadership with a concentration in higher education writing program administration
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
You belong here — don't ever doubt that!
Dr. Liz Johnston
Associate Professor, Social Sciences
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D., Smith College School for Social Work
Lisa Kawamura
Lecturer, Communication Studies
Degree(s) Earned
B.A. and M.A. in Communication Studies. First in family to graduate college
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
It is worth the hard work
Dr. David Kirby
Professor, Interdisciplinary Studies
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Molecular Evolutionary Genetics who now studies entertainment and science communication
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Be aware that imposter syndrome is significantly amplified for a first-generation student. Since no one in your family has been to college before you are constantly questioning whether you deserve to be here.
Dr. Gary Laver
Professor Emeriti, Psychology and Child Development
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Go to class — Do your homework — Get your sleep.
Dr. Anika Leithner
Professor, Political Science
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Political Science (specialty in global politics and political communications)
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Most importantly, remember that you belong here and you CAN do this! Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions. Try to connect with your professors early and often. In addition to faculty, department staff are among the greatest resources in helping you navigate the logistics of college.
Dr. Susana A. Lopez
Assistant Professor, Psychology and Child Development
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, with specialty in multicultural topics
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Be very proud of yourself. Getting to this point has probably not been easy. Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot achieve your dreams. It is possible. Seek those opportunities, connect with others and keep being kind to yourself.
Dr. Enrica Lovaglio
Professor, Art and Design
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D., Master's in Media Arts in U.S. plus Master in Architecture in Italy
Dr. Shanae Aurora Martinez
Assistant Professor, English
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in English Literature and Cultural Theory with specialty in indigenous literatures
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
You belong here; take up space.
Dr. Teresiana Matarrese
Lecturer, World Languages and cultures
Degree(s) Earned
MA in Spanish, MA in Italian, Doctorate in Modern Languages
Dr. Jorge Moraga
Assistant Professor, Ethnic Studies
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in American studies, with specialties in Latinx studies, pop culture and media, and critical sport studies
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
You belong here. Don't forget your roots. Trust in your power.
Dr. Allison Myers
Assistant Professor, Art and Design
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Art History with specialty in modern and contemporary art
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Going to professors' office hours can be intimidating, but the more you do it, the more you'll get out of your classes and the more you'll feel connected to the university. For me at least, asking for help turned out to be a skill I had to learn. I'd often write out a list of things I wanted to talk about beforehand so I'd have something to refer to when I felt nervous.
Dr. Jason Peters
Associate Professor, English
Degree(s) Earned
PhD English, composition and rhetoric; MFA Creative Writing, poetry
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Pick a faculty member on this list and introduce yourself. You already have something in common!
Dr. Elvira Pulitano
Professor, Ethnic Studies
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. English
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Be proud of your roots and do not be afraid to aim high.
Dr. Stacey Rucas
Professor, Social Sciences
Degree(s) Earned
PhD in Anthropology with a specialty in Human Evolutionary Ecology
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Show up, and keep showing up. Say "yes" to every worthwhile academic opportunity you can manage. Bask in the love of learning and surround yourself with others who feel the same. Soak it up and remember, no one else has it all figured out either :)
Dr. Krista Speicher Sarraf
Assistant Professor, English
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in English, Composition and Applied Linguistics
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
You worked hard to get here, and we are so proud of you. Enjoy every moment of your college experience. Don't hesitate to reach out to faculty and staff and ask us lots and lots of questions. We are here to demystify the process for you and help you reach your goals.
Dr. Tom Trice
Associate Professor, History
Degree(s) Earned
Ph. D., Russian & East European History
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
I always introduce myself to my students as "first generation," sharing with them my rural roots, and the ways in which college gave me an entirely new outlook on life. Typically, my aim is simply to reassure them that they can aim as "high" as anyone else with respect to career expectations, not to mention provide different perspectives on many things that those of us with professional credentials oftentimes don't think about or understand.
Dr. Brittany Wiley
Lecturer, Ethnic Studies
Degree(s) Earned
M.A. in Ethnic Studies, with specialty in Africana Studies; EdD in Educational Leadership
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Mentorship really helped me succeed in college. Seek out professors, advisors, staff, and even peers for guidance and support. The right mentor will advocate for you, champion your success, and be there to address obstacles as they arise. Remember, you are deserving!
Dr. Hocheol Yang
Assistant Professor, Graphic Communication
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Media and Communication
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Don't hesitate to contact faculty mentors.
Dr. Victoria Zamora
Lecturer, Communication Studies
Degree(s) Earned
PhD in Communication
Staff
Sabrina Canady
Lead Academic Advisor, CLA Advising
Degree(s) Earned
M.A. in Education, Counseling and Guidance with a focus in Higher Education
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
You are not and do not have to do this alone. We are here to help. It's okay to not know how to navigate the process of getting a degree or getting connected. What is more important is that you talk to folks, ask for help, ask them how they did it. That doesn't mean it is the same way you will, but it can help you determine what may or may not work for you. If you are not sure who to ask. Start with me or any of the other great people on this list. We want to see you succeed!
Administrators
Dr. Kelly Bennion
Associate Dean for Academic Personnel and Operations; Associate Professor, Psychology and Child Development
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D. in Psychology (Cognitive Neuroscience concentration), with specialty in how sleep, emotion, and stress impact memory
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Your faculty are here for you! Know that we wouldn't have chosen a teaching-focused institution like Cal Poly unless we genuinely wanted to get to know each of you and help you achieve your goals. I cannot imagine where I would be if I didn't regularly go to my professors' office hours to talk about possible next steps, and I sincerely encourage each of you to do the same!
Dr. Julie Bettergarcia
Associate Dean for Assesment, Research, and Inclusive Excellence; Professor, Psychology and Child Development
Degree(s) Earned
PhD in Social Psychology with specialty in prejudice, stereotyping, and intergroup relationships
What advice would you share with a first-generation college student at Cal Poly?
Don't be afraid to reach out to faculty to ask about class or tips on navigating your undergraduate coursework. Try new things. Take risks. Know that you got here because you deserve to be here. You belong!
Dr. José Navarro
Department Chair and Professor, Ethnic Studies
Degree(s) Earned
Ph.D in English (Fields: Latina/o Lit, Postcolonialism, Gender & Sexuality Studies)
