College application season is officially over for the 2024 California State and University term. Seniors interested in pursuing higher education at California State Universities and University of California institutions submitted their applications on Nov. 29 awaiting their decisions. Joining in the middle of November, college advisor Ashley Galvez endured a busy month, helping guide seniors toward a life where they embrace the journey of endless learning after high school.
Galvez attended San Diego State University where she majored in psychology and minored in counseling and social change. Her experience as a peer counselor while pursuing her undergrad in psychology inspired her decision in academic advising.
“I did for a year, and that’s when like I really fell in love with advising. I had so much fun like when I would see a student come in like so stressed, but then they would leave being like, ‘Oh my god thank you,’ you helped so much. I was like, ‘Wait, this feels so good.’ And then when I got back from Spain I was like, I really want to be an advisor,” said Galvez.
At the peak of college applications, Galvez explained how she handled stress and time management for both herself and seniors.
“So my biggest advice for academic stress would be to either go out and consult someone else and vent it out, or when you’re thinking of solutions, write it down. Once you see it on paper, you’re like, ‘Okay, I could totally handle this.’ Plus the feeling that you get when you check it off is so satisfying,” Galvez said.
As she gains more experience, she explained how grateful she is for her role as she can help others during the application process, which she explored by herself as a teenager.
“I only applied to UCs and Cal States. I actually didn’t have access to a college advisor though. So being on this end I’m like, wow we really do help a lot. We read every question you guys have, even if we don’t know the answer, we try to provide as much access as we can and so it’s been nice to give back because I remember being so stressed this time of year,” she said.
Taking this into account she makes it a priority to lead with her influence as a college advisor staying true to her values.
“It’s so important to me to always advocate for inclusivity, especially as a college advisor because I want to make sure that everyone feels like there is space for them. That’s why I encourage every senior to put themselves out there and take up space,” she said.
Galvez continued her path toward college and made it a priority to focus on her mental health learning from her past worries in high school.
“I don’t think I ever took my mental health seriously or anything like that. I see you guys stress and I’m like that was definitely me. I was definitely crying in high school and I just blew everything out of proportion. But that definitely differed in college, ”said Galvez.
Through her experience in college, she reassured seniors that there is more to life than school and taking time for yourself is just as important.
“Go somewhere where you’re forced to do something for yourself, even something small every day. It could be like skincare one day, or going to play basketball another day. I know you guys are involved in clubs and sports and stuff. But even that sometimes you forget to have fun because that’s how I was in high school. So even just trying to have a little bit of fun every day will alleviate so much stress,” said Galvez.
Wanting to get out of her comfort zone and learn more, Galvez decided to spend a year in Spain where she taught English. The difference in cultures greatly impacted her perspective as she navigated life and became more open-minded.
“In Spain, they’re only working so that way they can live their life but here we’re living to work. So being surrounded by that sort of culture was good because I’m such a stressed out person and it definitely made me like relax a little bit and instill a mindset that’s more go with the flow,” said Galvez.
Galvez mentioned how her motivation to work hard not only comes from her personal pursuit of happiness, but also from her mother’s support.
“The journey is the most fun part. That’s when you start to realize what you like and what you don’t like. So I’m trying to embrace the journey more,” she said.
As Galvez reflected on her work, she noted that it was difficult at first for seniors to ask for help in the college center, often feeling intimidated.
“I know it sounds so daunting at first, especially for those who haven’t even considered education after high school. But whatever your version of success is, that’s all we want to help you achieve. So just getting that first step walking into this classroom you’re already so brave because asking for help can be so hard,” she said
Looking forward, Galvez discussed how rewarding it feels to help and watch seniors grow into adults alongside co-advisor Tom Nguyen excited to celebrate acceptances with seniors.
“I’m so proud of the seniors and working with them and Mr. Nguyen has been very efficient, you guys are on top of your stuff for the most part and I can’t wait to see your guys’ acceptances,” Galvez said.
As seniors continue to navigate their adolescence and goals of higher education, the college center welcomes them. Advisors return on Dec. 7 when seniors can receive counseling surrounding the common app for private institutions in room B-1 during nutrition, lunch, after school, and during class if given a pass.
