Meet Ignacia Villavelazquez-Hill, the Accessible 教育 Center Director
Ignacia Villavelazquez-Hill, MA
Director, Accessible 教育 Center
电子邮件: ignacia.v@flcoastline.com
First day of work at San Jose State University -二零零五年三月一日
How did you get here?
I discovered Student Affairs during my student assistant time at my alma mater UCSC, but it wasn’t a profession I decided to pursue until after having worked in K-12, community college, and nonprofit. Once I realized higher education was what brought me the most joy, I turned to 菠菜网lol正规平台 for a graduate degree. While a student here I joined the then Disability Resource Center staff and found my calling.
I’ve had the opportunity to learn the field from the ground up and continue to find the ever-changing work fascinating. Not 一个 day goes by where I don’t learn something new, be it from our students, my colleagues, or caselaw.
Who were your role models or mentors?
Growing up, my parents were my first role models. They did so much with so little. At times working extremely long hours, but somehow managing to always being present 当它算数的时候. Their ability to multi-task and be creative problem solvers are qualities I apply in my own life/work life.
As a young professional I’ve been blessed with amazing mentors. Most recently my previous 主管. She had impressive strong work ethic and a continuous drive to learn. I model my professional development methods around her recommendations so that I, too, may stay relevant in a field that is constantly changing
What are your tips for getting started in this field?
A graduate degree in a related field is best, but be ready to be a lifetime learner. Take advantage of any opportunity to intern. This will give you first-hand experience to determine if disability support services is a good fit.
Your work will have meaningful impact on students overcoming some serious obstacles. You will think outside the box and learn to analyze issues from all angles.
What are your most important habit(s) or resource(s) for staying well?
- Taking a few moments daily to breath, relax, and stay hydrated.
- Reliving life through my kids eyes – every new activity is an adventure.