Destination Western Peer Advisors
We know the transition to college can be challenging. This program was designed to help you acclimate to a new academic and social environment. Your peer advisors will be with you throughout this experience to assist with anything you may need. We’re so excited to meet you! Welcome aboard!
Get to know the 2021 Destination Western Peer Advisors!
Gerardo Acevedo Solis
He/Him/His/Él | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Business. Some of my campus involvements have included being a Multicultural Representative Mentor, MSSP, and the Men’s Soccer Club. I’m excited to help new students get out of their comfort zone and answer any similar questions I had during my first year! My advice for new students is to get out of your comfort zone and participate in new things you wouldn’t have done before!
Isaac Acosta
He/Him/His | Senior
I’m studying a major in Education with a concentration in English/Language Arts and a minor in ESOL. One of my campus involvements is being an Orientation PLUS Team member. I’m excited to make some good memories before school starts and help make sure students are successful in their upcoming classes! My advice for new students is that your first year of college can be exciting, but also challenging, so be sure to prioritize your personal wellbeing!
Kayley Arpaia
She/Her/Hers | Senior
I’m studying a major in Biology with an emphasis in Zoology and minors in ASL and Social Science. Some of my campus involvements have included Ambassadors, the Student Activities Board, and coordinating the Food Pantry. I’m excited to meet new students as they come to live on campus for the first time! My advice for new students is to get involved because it brings you so many opportunities and helps you meet new people!
Mary Ayala-Velasquez
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. One of my campus involvements is being a Multicultural Representatives mentor. I’m excited to meet new people and help those who are trying to find the best resources for their success! My advice for new students is to make connections while you’re here! These are going to be people who will be helpful to you sooner or later, both academically and as friends!
Gheraldy Bobadilla-Cruz
He/Him/His/Él | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Education with a concentration in Social Sciences. Some of my campus involvements have included the Orientation PLUS Team, the Multicultural Student Union, and the Unidos Club. I’m excited to make a ton of fun memories with all the students who will be attending! My advice for new students is to put yourself out there and seek discomfort. Sometimes, things that seem scary can actually lead you to the best life experiences!
Elizabeth “ZZ” Braatz
She/Her/Hers | Senior
I’m studying a major in Criminal Justice with a minor in Legal Studies. Some of my campus involvements have included the Residence Hall Association, being a Resident Assistant, and the ASWOU Senate President. I’m excited to be a mentor for incoming students! My advice for new students is to self-discover, become who you want to be, and surround yourself with those who celebrate you as you are!
Isabelle Brehm
They/Them/Theirs | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Political Science with a minor in ASL. One of my campus involvements is being an Upward Bound Peer Advisor. I’m excited to help others as they come to college so that they have as much support as possible! My advice for new students is that making connections is not only good for your mental health, but it will give you more support and make your college experiences more meaningful. Also, just be yourself and get out of your comfort zone!
Cheyanne Bumgardner
She/Her/Hers | Senior
I’m studying a major in American Sign Language/English Interpreting Studies with minors in ASL and Psychology. Some of my campus involvements have included being the Co-Coordinator of both the Orientation PLUS Team and Campus Ambassadors Team, as well as the Campus Visitation Coordinator. I’m excited to share tips and tricks for success in college! My advice for new students is to explore the campus and learn about as much as you possibly can!
Angel Cruz
He/Him/His/Él | Senior
I’m studying a major in Education with a concentration in Mathematics and a minor in ESOL. Some of my campus involvements have included being a Math Center tutor, Omega Delta Phi fraternity, and volunteering at the Food Pantry. I’m excited to be able to work with incoming and current students to make the last part of summer memorable! My advice for new students is don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today!
Priscila España
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Junior
I’m studying a double major in Public Policy & Administration and Spanish. Some of my campus involvements have included Upward Bound, the Student Enrichment Program, and the Honors Program. I’m excited to help incoming students become acclimated to campus culture! My advice for new students is to look for something that you’re passionate about and get involved! I encourage incoming students to look for the clubs and programs that will make WOU feel like home for them!
Abigail Fisher
She/Her/Hers | Junior
I’m studying a double major in American Sign Language/English Interpreting Studies and Elementary Education with a minor in ASL. Some of my campus involvements have included PLUS Team, Ambassadors, and being an SSA tutor. I’m excited to help make students’ transition from high school to college a smooth and fabulous one! My advice for new students is to get involved on campus right away! You’ll meet your fellow classmates and make WOU your new home!
Kassidy Fegles-Jones
She/Her/Hers | Junior
I’m studying a major in Political Science. One of my campus involvements is being the LGBTQIA+ liaison for the Freedom Center. I’m excited to help students adjust to college and give them the ability and skills to be successful! My advice for new students is to get involved with clubs and organizations on campus. It has made my college experience so much better!
Sandra García Torres
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Senior
I’m studying a double major in Psychology and Spanish. Some of my campus involvements have included being a Co-Coordinator of the Campus Ambassadors Team, Senior PLUS Team Member, and Coordinator of Alternative Break. I’m excited to help students feel confident going into their first term! My advice for new students is to organize your schedule in a way that works best for you. Knowing when to study, take breaks for self-care, etc. are helpful!
Jessica Garibay Ochoa
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Sophomore
I’m studying a double major in Psychology and Public Health. Some of my campus involvements have included Discover Leadership, the Unidos Club, and the Residential Conduct Board. I’m excited to help students feel more comfortable and at home at WOU! My advice for new students is to not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things!
Blanca Jimenez
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Junior
I’m studying a double major in Psychology and Public Health with a minor in Gerontology. Some of my campus involvements have included MEChA, the Incidental Fee Committee, and the Women’s Club Rugby Team. I’m excited to provide my experience and support to incoming students as they transition into WOU! My advice for incoming students is to not be afraid to try things you’ve never done before. Be open to new experiences and new people!
Hailey Johnson
She/Her/Hers | Senior
I’m studying a major in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Education, Humanities, and Music, and a minor in ESOL. Some of my campus involvements have included being an SLCD Peer Career Advisor and TPSSS Outreach Mentor. I’m excited to help students connect with the tools needed to succeed in higher education! My advice for new students is that it’s always important to communicate and get to know your peers and professors!
Madi Knox
She/Her/Hers | Senior
I’m studying a major in Early Childhood/Elementary Education with a minor in Theatre Arts. Some of my campus involvements have included being a Co-Coordinator of the Orientation PLUS Team, Campus Ambassador, and trustee on the WOU Foundation Board. I’m excited to share the amazing opportunities and resources available to students! My advice for new students is to apply for jobs, join clubs, and meet people!
Nova Kohnke
They/Them/Theirs | Senior
I’m studying a major in English Writing. One of my campus involvements is being a tutor in the Writing Center. I don’t always have to opportunity to get to know students at the Writing Center very well, so I’m really excited I get to work more closely with them! My advice for new students is to ask “stupid” questions! It should be expected since you’re still learning, and chances are that other people are wondering the same thing!
Kaylie Leonard
She/Her/Hers | Senior
I’m studying a major in Early Childhood/Elementary Education with a minor in Psychology. Some of my campus involvements have included working for Alumni Relations, the Admissions Office, and the Orientation PLUS Team. I’m excited to show off all the different things our campus has to offer and put students in touch with resources to have a successful year! My advice for new students is to get out there and go to orientation events!
Rosy Madrigal
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Senior
I’m studying a major in Psychology with a minor in Spanish. One of my campus involvements is being a Diversity Scholar. I’m excited to help students meet new people and guide them through their first few weeks of college! My advice for new students is to try to stay as involved in school activities as possible, as this will will give you a sense of belonging and make it easier for you to adjust to college life!
Leah Maraia
She/Her/Hers | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Public Health. Some of my campus involvements have included the Campus Ambassadors team and Sorority Life. I’m excited to help students many connections with other people! My advice for new students is to get to know your professors and join clubs!
Johnny Martinez
He/Him/His/Él | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Education. Some of my campus involvements have included TPSSS, the Men’s Soccer Club, and the Wrestling Club. I’m excited to meet new people and be a helping hand for those who need it! My advice for new students is to reach out and use your resources!
Moshe Martinez
He/Him/His/Él | Junior
I’m studying a major in Computer Science with a minor in Spanish. Some of my campus involvements have included working for University Computing Services, Upward Bound, and Campus Ambassadors. I’m excited to help students connect with the amazing resources, people, and organizations across campus! My advice for new students is don’t be afraid to try new things! Even if you don’t know anyone yet, this is is the best time to meet new people!
Julz Mudge
She/Her/Hers | Graduate Student
I’m studying to earn my Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership. Some of my campus involvements have included being a Graduate Assistant, Color Guard, and choreographing for the Drag Show and dance concerts. I’m excited to help students get a jump start on college and share what I’ve learned during my time here! My advice for new students is to get involved, learn new things, and find new passions!
Cristina Olivares
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Early Childhood/Elementary Education with a minor in ESOL. One of my campus involvements is being a TPSSS Office Assistant and Mentor. I’m excited to build friendships with other students! My advice for new students is to enjoy your time at WOU because it will fly by. All of the students participating in Destination Western are here to get a preview of what college is like, so make the most out of it!
Anakaren Puentes
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Senior
I’m studying a major in Early Childhood/Elementary Education with minors in ESOL and Psychology. Some of my campus involvements have included being a Multicultural Representatives mentor, Orientation PLUS Team member, and Discover Leadership. I’m excited to meet incoming students and help with the fun activities! My advice for new students is that you are starting off fresh and this is your time to grow!
TJ Rabosky
He/Him/His | Senior
I’m studying a major in Mathematics with a minor in ESOL. Some of my campus involvements have included being a math tutor, Resident Assistant, and Discover Leadership. I’m excited to help new students connect with one another and have a great start at WOU! My advice for new students is to actively engage with campus activities. There are so many opportunities to make your time here more memorable!
José Rojas Olivares
He/Él & They/Elle | Junior
I’m studying a major in Elementary Education with a minor in ESOL. Some of my campus involvements have included Hall Government, ASWOU, and TPSSS. I’m excited to help our incoming wolves have some fun and feel confident in their decision to pursue higher education! My advice for new students is to be the first to participate in class, ask someone to join you for lunch, and talk to your professors out of class!
Chantel Rumenapp
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Education with a focus in Chemistry and a minor in Mathematics. Some of my campus involvements have included TPSSS and being a Multicultural Representative Mentor. I’m excited to teach and work with others, two things I love to do! My advice for new students is to talk to new people, check out clubs, and ultimately, have fun!
Elizabeth Salazar
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Senior
I’m studying a major in Criminal Justice with a minor in Spanish. Some of my campus involvements have included the Multicultural Student Union, Unidos Club, and being a Multicultural Representatives mentor. I’m excited to meet new people and make memories full of adventure! My advice for new students is to not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone!
Jessica Salgado
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Junior
I’m studying a major in Education with a concentration in Mathematics. Some of my campus involvements have included the Math Club, MSSP, and Upward Bound. I’m excited to connect with our incoming students! My advice for new students is to take every opportunity to try new things during your first year! Clubs, foods, hobbies, styles, etc.!
Ciclali Santos
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Business with a minor in Entrepreneurship. Some of my campus involvements have included the Business & Economics Club and being a Multicultural Representatives mentor. I’m excited to work with new people and make a difference for others! My advice for new students is to get involved in the clubs and programs WOU has to offer. The school opens many doors for everyone!
Arlette Tapia
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Junior
I’m studying a major in Social Sciences with a concentration in Political Science and a minor in Legal Studies. Some of my campus involvements have included the Multicultural Student Union, Freedom Center, and Kappa Delta Chi sorority. I’m excited to see students come to campus and learn about the resources that WOU offers while having fun and meeting new people! My advice for new students is to try something new!
Elisa “Ella” Tenido
She/Her/Hers | Junior
I’m studying a major in History with minors in Public Policy & Administration and Sustainability. Some of my campus involvements have included being an Orientation PLUS Team member and Campus Ambassador, as well as Alpha Chi Omega sorority. I’m excited to hear students’ stories and bring life to campus! My advice for new students is to feel all the emotions you may be feeling about college!
Devin Thongdy
He/Him/His | Senior
I’m studying a major in Psychology with minors in Educational and Forensic Psychology. Some of my campus involvements have included being the Vice President of ASWOU and a Resident Asisstant, as well as Hall Government. I’m excited to help our new students succeed and provide them with a support system! My advice for new students is that college is a time to be yourself and explore new opportunities!
Roger Vasquez-Munoz
He/Him/His/Él | Sophomore
I’m studying a major in Computer Science. Some of my campus involvements have included being an Upward Bound Peer Advisor and the Student Enrichment Program. I’m excited to provide incoming students with the support they need as they transition to WOU! My advice for new students is to ask as many questions as possible, and to apply for/join programs that interest you!
Gema Ventura Alfonso
She/Her/Hers/Ella | Senior
I’m studying a major in Physical Education with a minor in ESOL. Some of my campus involvements have included Kappa Delta Chi sorority and working for the MSSP office. I’m excited to meet new students, be a support system, and create new memories! be a support system, get to meet new students. My advice for new students is to get out of your comfort zone, try new things, and be engaged in school activities as much as you can!
Meg Warnstadt
All Pronouns | Junior
I’m studying a major in ASL/English Interpreting Studies with a minor in Psychology. One of my campus involvements is being the Vice President of Model United Nations. I’m excited to help students feel more prepared for the academic year and form friendships! My advice for new students is to take care of your health because it’s your top priority and communicate well with your professors!
