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Orientation Leader Team

Student Orientation Coordinators

Sarah Garcia

Name: Sarah Garcia

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Liberal Studies

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation, Student Assistance in Learning (SAIL), Child Development Club

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The sense of community and support from professors and staff makes CSUSB special. Your success as a coyote is important and CSUSB offers so many resources to assist students in achieving those goals

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Try new things, step out of that comfort zone, and be open to change. You are capable of great things and the experience is so rewarding!

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Welcoming, Informative, Insightful, Reassuring, Fun!

Estefany Magallon

Name: Estefany Magallon

Pronouns:She/Her/Ella 

Hometown: Phelan, CA

Major: Business Administration – Accounting

CSUSB Involvement:I am currently involved in the Honors Program as a PAES Scholar, in NSLS as Student President, in LBSA as Treasurer, and EOPSA as Treasurer.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB’s uniqueness stems from its diverse population and its catering of underrepresented groups.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? One piece of advice I would give to a new student is to try and get out there. Whether that be joining
clubs, going to events, or even asking a classmate to be a study buddy, the memories come from the new experiences you wouldn’t have had otherwise.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Orientation is Engaging, Informative, Revolutionary, Fun, and Welcoming.

Elsy Saravia Zelaya

Name: Elsy Saravia Zelaya

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Fontana, CA

Major: Liberal Studies

CSUSB Involvement: Honors Program

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Diverse and welcoming environment, a place where everyone belongs.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Do not think twice about talking to the person next to you, just go for it! You never know, they might end up being one of your closest friends for the next 4 years (that happened to me).

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Energetic, resourceful, welcoming, supportive, teamwork

 

Orientation Leaders

Aaron Hayes

Name: Aaron Hayes

Hometown: Riverside, CA

Major: Fine Arts – Graphic Design Interface

CSUSB Involvement: I love getting involved on campus by joining clubs, attending events, and connecting with classmates and professors.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? To me, what makes CSUSB special is the incredibly diverse and welcoming community that makes campus feel like home.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? My advice would be to stay organized, don't be afraid to ask for help, and definitely get involved—it makes your college experience so much better. 

Describe Orientation in 5 words. I found orientation welcoming, fun, informative, engaging, and supportive.

Alejandra Rodriguez

Name: Alejandra Rodriguez

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Perris, CA

Major: Kinesiology

CSUSB Involvement: I love getting involved by attending events and workshops!

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB has an amazing community of diverse students and staff which makes up for an incredibly welcoming experience. Especially for us first generation students!

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? My advice for new students is honestly to get out of your comfort zone! Meet new people, put yourself in situations you wouldn't normally be in, branch out and discover that new side of you that you haven't allowed yourself to explore Feel everything you need to and experience everything you can!

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Memorable, nerve racking, surprising, supportive, resourceful

Alexia Nieblas

Name: Alexia Nieblas

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Hesperia, CA

Major: Pre-Nursing

CSUSB Involvement: Roles I’ve had on campus just within my first year include being Village Council President, Residential Assistant, and an Orientation Leader! I also like to attend bigger campus events and smaller programs hosted by other DHRE members.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is special because it’s a campus full of welcoming communities where everyone can find their place. Whether you're into academics, culture, leadership, or just looking for friends, there’s a group or space for you. It’s easy to feel included because people here genuinely care—students, staff, and faculty all want you to thrive and feel like you belong. No matter where you come from, you can find your home at CSUSB.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student?  One piece of advice I’d give to a new student is to get involved as soon as possible. Don’t wait! Whether it’s joining a club, attending campus events, or being part of a student organization, getting involved helps you meet people, build a support system, and make the most out of your time at CSUSB. It makes the campus feel smaller, more welcoming, and way more fun. Plus, it opens doors to opportunities you might not expect!

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Exciting, supportive, engaging, transitional, memorable!

Alicia Ramirez

Name: Alicia Ramirez

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: History

Alize Juarez

Name: Alize Juarez

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Victorville, CA

Major: Child Development

CSUSB Involvement: NSOFP Student Assistant, Returning Orientation Leader, Child Development Club

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I feel that the students here make CSUSB special. We have such a diverse group of students in our Orientation team, classes, and in our community. From different cultural backgrounds to being a first- generation student, CSUSB has many different resources to help support your educational journey.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Surround yourself with people who will help you bloom. People who will encourage you, study with you, and make you laugh.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Informative, engaging, welcoming, inclusive, resourceful

Alondra Nodal-Diaz

Name: Alondra Nodal-Diaz

Hometown: Pomona, CA

Major: Pre-Social Work

Brian Ponce

Name: Brian Ponce

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Perris, CA

Major: Sociology

CSUSB Involvement: Queer and Transgender Resource Center (QTRC), American Indian Student Organization (AISO)

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is very welcoming with a great community that motivates you to do your best.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Use your first year to explore the whole campus as there are many things to be interested in and can help you with either your major, making friendships, and educational/knowledgeable information that you can gain for yourself. Do not wait and if you’re nervous to reach out just remember that there are other newcomers who are also having the same new experiences as you. Be curious!

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Teamwork, Diverse, Fun, Informative, and Encouraging

Brian Rodriguez Lopez

Name: Brian Rodriguez Lopez

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Baker, CA

Major: Public Health

CSUSB Involvement: Sigma Phi Epsilon, Lubos Paso

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Its diverse student body.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Visit the affinity centers for resources and opportunities for involvement!

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Interactive, Fun, Controlled Chaos, informational

Briesa Vasquez

Name: Briesa Vasquez

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Major: Liberal Studies

CSUSB Involvement: I am a returning Orientation leader, and I am also a Peer Advisor for ASUA. 

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I think that the resources and sense of community makes CSUSB special. Everyone at CSUSB is so welcoming and supportive.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? One piece of advice I would give a new student is to use all the resources that CSUSB has to offer.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Fun, Community, Inclusive, Supportive, and Welcoming.

Chloe Meneses

Name: Chloe Meneses

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Rialto, CA

Major: History

CSUSB Involvement: As of right now, I am currently involved in CSUSB’s Competitive Esports team for Overwatch. I’ve been able to meet new people, create friendships, and find a community within CSUSB while being on the team.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB special would be the students. There are so many unique communities of people that there is a home for everyone. I used to never spend time on campus but after finding my community, I’ve truly been able to enjoy my college experience like never before.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Utilize the amenities of the school. Go to the library and use the study rooms, hang out on campus and explore the buildings. The campus is very fun to explore because it's so giant.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Fun, Welcoming, Informative, Exciting, Motivating

Cristina Parada

Name: Cristina Parada

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Psychology

CSUSB Involvement: S.L.A.M Tennis Club and Honors Program

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB cares a lot about their students, they’re here to serve you.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Don’t be afraid of trying to meet and get to know new people, it’ll make your experience so much better!

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Busy, Informative, Fun, Unique

Deanna Alvarado

Name: Deanna Alvarado

Pronouns: she/her

Hometown: Hesperia, CA

Major: Criminal Justice

CSUSB Involvement:  I am not currently involved in any clubs, but I like attending the school events that are hosted by student clubs and Late Night. 

What makes CSUSB unique/special? I think CSUSB is very unique because there is a lot of diversity in the university from the students who attend to the clubs and the resources they provide. They make everyone feel included and there are many programs at school that fits for all students. 

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? One piece of advice that I would give to a new student is to try and get involved because you will feel more a part of the community, and it enhances the college experience. It is a good way to use all the resources that the school has to offer.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Exciting, Teamwork, Fun, Diverse, Entertaining

Frank Sauceda

Name: Frank Sauceda

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Indio, CA

Major: Information Systems – Cyber Security

CSUSB Involvement:  SLAM Tennis Club, OCEL, Orientation, CSUSB Indoor Soccer League.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is special because of the different academic programs that we excel in, such as having one of the top cybersecurity programs nationwide.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Don’t be afraid to get help. Whether that is help with your classes or with your mental health, there are so many resources on this campus to help you succeed.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Resourceful, Networking, Fun, Resources, Informative

Giovany Martinez-Gutierrez

Name: Giovany Martinez-Gutierrez

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Fontana, CA

Major: Computer Science

CSUSB Involvement: I try to get involved in any school events or conferences relating my major, there’s always stuff going on! 

What makes CSUSB unique/special? No matter the spot or the building, theres a place to sit, study, relax or just take everything in, this campus just feels so homey

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Don’t be so scared to explore or try new things, make new friends and new memories, almost everyone here is just as lost as you. 

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Knowledgeable, relatable, supportive, engaging, welcoming

Giselle Mora

Name: Giselle Mora

Pronouns: She/Her/They/Them

Hometown: Highland, CA

Major: Sociology

CSUSB Involvement: I work at SMSU North 3rd floor in the Women’s Resource Center; I am a part of the American Indian Student Organization (AISO).

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is special for how effortfully they strive to represent and advocate for the many demographics present on campus. It's interesting that we have two separate colleges and student bodies, but the two campuses often collaborate to best serve their student population.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? The advice I would like to share is don’t stay static, find your community and network because more often than not there is a community that is suited perfectly for every student. You could do so by getting involved in campus events and programs because often they create connections, bring awareness, and gain valuable knowledge for educational, professional, and personal life.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Supportive, knowledgeable, community, committed, encouraging

Isidora Esquivel

Name: Isidora Esquivel

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Riverside, CA

Major: Child Development

CSUSB Involvement: I am not a part of any clubs, but I want to join the child development club in fall 2025. I like to go to campus events and attend workshops.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is special because they try to accommodate the students' needs. Specifically, the cave is a space created to provide students with a location to do work in and it is open 24/7, so no matter what a student's schedule is, they have somewhere to safely do work. This is only one example of how CSUSB creates a great atmosphere

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Come to campus early so you can find your classes ahead of time, so you don’t have to feel rushed or stressed looking for your classes.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Informative, Beginning, support, friendship, new

Itzelth Lopez

Name: Itzelth Lopez

Pronouns: Rialto, CA

Hometown: Business Administration - Accounting

Major: Attending centers’ events/health and wellness workshops.

CSUSB Involvement: Attending centers’ events/health and wellness workshops.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The professors who are willing to listen to you, have empathy and understand what’s going on with you once you tell them.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? If you can’t take care of yourself mentally and emotionally first, you won’t be able to take care of yourself physically.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Community, Guidance, Preparation. Support, Connections

Jacob Lindensmith

Name: Jacob Lindensmith

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Major: Ethnic Studies

CSUSB Involvement: American x Japanese Cross Culture Club

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is unique/special in the way that it’s a welcoming campus to students new to the college process and cares about the local community. Most professors are extremely down to earth and helpful!

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Attend workshops that are offered!!! They’re a great way to meet faculty, learn something new outside of class/between breaks, and most of the time free food is offered!!

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Fresh, informational, new, memorable, helpful

Julius Fermin

Name: Julius Fermin

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Hesperia, CA

Major: Child Development

CSUSB Involvement: Esports, Orientation Leader

What makes CSUSB unique/special? It has such a wide range of new people who I can meet and engage with every day. You never know who you are going to meet.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Don’t procrastinate when it comes to your assignments. Once you start, it is really hard to stop.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Entertaining, New, Exciting, Informational, Memorable.

Kade Ferguson

Name: Kade Ferguson

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Riverside, CA

Major: Chemistry

CSUSB Involvement: Program Board, Orientation Leader, Honors Program, PAES Scholar, Residential Student Assistant, Grant Writing Program, Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is special in the way that the nature built into/surrounding campus creates such a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? I think it is incredibly important for new/incoming students to be open minded and get involved on campus.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Refreshing, insightful, welcoming, informative, memorable.

Kalyna Jefferson

Name: Kalyna Jefferson

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Victorville

Major: Criminal Justice

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation Leader

What makes CSUSB unique/special? One thing that makes CSUSB special is its diverse programs. Theres so many programs you can join or just use to be successful.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Make Connections and get involved with the campus

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Fun, Educating, Social, Supportive, Memorable

Katie Marshall

Name: Katie Marshall

Hometown: Crestline, CA

Major: Biology

Kimberly Marshall

Name: Kimberly Marshall

Hometown: Crestline, CA

Major: Psychology

Krystel Calara

Name: Krystel Calara

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Rialto, CA

Major: Social Work

CSUSB Involvement: Honors Program, returning Orientation Leader

What makes CSUSB unique/special? There are so many campus events! It’s friendly, no matter where you go.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Get involved as much as possible, see what resources the school provides to have a good first year here academically.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. exciting, interesting, involving, informational, fun

Leslie Saldana

Name: Leslie Saldana

Pronouns: she/her

Hometown: Colton, CA

Major: Spanish – Hispanic Language, Literature and Civilization

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation Leader and planning to be more involved in campus activities and organizations! 

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB has a strong sense of community, every student makes the school, and the environment feel like home and this feeling of belonging, fellowship and proudness of every single one of the Coyotes is that makes CSUSB special.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Never be afraid of asking questions, or to be involved; going out of your comfort zone is the start of your way to success!

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Curiosity, informative, connections, happiness and success.

Luis Lopez

Name: Luis Lopez

Pronouns: He/Him/El

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

Major: Communication Studies

CSUSB Involvement: CSUSB Competitive Cheer Team

What makes CSUSB unique/special? The campus has an amazing community of people who always make you feel welcomed.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? To be open to using all the campus resources to ensure your success.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Engaging, Community, Leader, Creative and Cheerful.

Maria Delgado

Name: Maria Delgado

Hometown: Moreno Valley, CA

Major: Business Administration – Finance

Mya Alejo

Name: Mya Alejo

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Fontana, CA

Major: Business Administration – Marketing

CSUSB Involvement: Student Orientation and Coyotes Achieve/Student Mentoring

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB special is the diversity this campus has. 

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? To not be scared to ask questions because asking questions can help you understand.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Helpful, Resourceful, Fun, Exciting, New

Mark de Caprariis

Name: Mark de Caprariis

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Rome, Italy

Major: Theatre Arts

CSUSB Involvement: Student Assistant for CSUSB Athletics 

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Not only is the campus vast, but the sheer number of services and tools at the student's disposal is truly what sets CSUSB apart from other CSUs.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Walk around campus, get your bearings and you’ll discover places that you didn’t know were there. There is no such thing as a stupid question or irrelevant doubt if you ever find yourself lost staff and the various offices are more than happy to help you.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Fun, Informative, Grounding, Explorative, and Confidence-Building

Michelle Juarez

Name: Michelle Juarez

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Business Administration – Marketing

CSUSB Involvement: I go to speaker events & workshops

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Professors, students, and staff make CSUSB special because you never know who you’ll make a connection with.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? My advice for new students is to go to many school events and workshops to make connections with different people. It helps build communication skills as time progresses.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Orientation is informative, enjoyable, interesting, friendly, and accepting.

Michelle Ramirez Gutierrez

Name: Michelle Ramirez Gutierrez

Pronouns: She/ Her

Hometown: Riverside, CA

Major: Liberal Studies

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation Leader

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is unique/ special because of the student's diversity. The community of students is wonderful.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Some advice that I would give to a new student is to not hesitate when they have a question. We have
answers to your questions. We are here to clarify anything you might be confused about. Confusion is okay. We are happy to help you with anything you may need!

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Informative, Welcoming, Exciting, Engaging, and Memorable!

Nicholas Aghedo

Name: Nicholas Aghedo

Pronouns: he/him

Hometown: Moreno Valley, CA

Major: Computer Science

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation Leader and SEGS crew member.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Haven’t been to other schools so I wouldn’t know! I will say what makes CSUSB special is the fact I’m here. You’re welcome, everyone.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Take opportunities you see when they come by, they can change your life for the better (most of the time).

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Bonds made along the way.

Nicholas Flores

Name: Nicholas Flores

Pronouns: He/ Him

Hometown: Riverside, CA

Major: Theatre Arts

CSUSB Involvement: Opera Theatre & Orientation Leader

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB gives opportunity to anyone and everyone, we’re a school that sticks up for the underdog and we take care of each other always.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Ask for help, use your resources provided to you on campus, if you plan to live on campus, go to all events offered so you can make friends.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Exciting, transformative, resourceful, inspiring, and fun!

Perth Benson

Name: Perth Benson

Hometown: Victorville, CA

Major: Psychology

Rebeca Lopez

Name: Rebeca Lopez

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Barstow, CA

Major: Biology

CSUSB Involvement: Orientation Leader

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB is unique for its diverse community emphasizing different cultures and student support services there is a supportive environment and a beautiful campus!

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? My advice to a new student would be to get involved on campus, make friends, it is a big change to
transition from high school, or a community college don’t hesitate to use campus resources or be afraid to ask for help we all would be glad to help you! Also explore the campus to know where your classes are and to find good study spots. 

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Informative, welcoming, engaging, supportive, guiding

Salote Alatini

Name: Salote Alatini

Pronouns: They/Them

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Major: Computer Science

CSUSB Involvement: Science Success Center, Undocumented Student Center, Financial Literacy Center (events), Orientation Leader, Math Club

What makes CSUSB unique/special? CSUSB has a place for everyone, with the mass number of resources as well as the diversity in this school, there's a place for everyone.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Get involved! Transitioning from a two year or even high school is a massive change and things like joining clubs or even attending events are what will help you integrate into this new chapter of life.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Engaging, comfortable, explorative, informational, new

Sam Rheuark

Name: Sam Rheuark

Pronouns: He/Him, They/Them

Hometown: Psychology

Major: Psychology

CSUSB Involvement: PPG member, Work in the Theatre Dept. Costume Shop, and Orientation!

What makes CSUSB unique/special? think that CSUSB’s community is so supportive and accepting. Everyone is kind and welcoming and it makes it feel like an environment to thrive in.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Do everything and don't be shy. People will welcomeyou and go to every resource you can.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Fun, exciting, nerve-racking, supportive and engaging

Seth Whiting

Name: Seth Whiting

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: Victorville, CA

Major: Biology

CSUSB Involvement: I am currently involved in AMSA (American Medical Student Association), Honors Program, Supplemental Instruction, Science Sucess Center, 2024 and Returning Orientation Leader, and Four- Year Pledge.

What makes CSUSB unique/special? What makes CSUSB unique/special is that the university provides many resources, academic or non-academic. It is also special because CSUSB has a variety of different communities and/or cultures.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? One piece of advice I’d give to a first-year or new transfer student is: if you ever feel out of place or like an imposter, get involved in as many activities as you can, it really helps you find your community.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Welcoming, informative, engaging, supportive, fun

Yamilex Aguilera

Name:Yamilex Aguilera

Pronouns: She/her

Hometown: Victorville, CA

Major: English

CSUSB Involvement: I am currently involved in College Corps. I am the President of a club, Honors program, Four-Year Pledge, SAIL student, and EOP student. 

What makes CSUSB unique/special? Although from afar it might look like a not-so-good university, it really is. It offers a lot of help to students who are searching for it. I am in my first year here, I have met so many wonderful staff members and Professors!

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new student? Never doubt being here. You are one step closer to a brighter future for yourself. That is something to be proud about and should be a reminder of your past accomplishment.

Describe Orientation in 5 words. Welcoming, explorative, curious, engaging, and exciting.

Yeyfer Andrade

Name: Yeyfer Andrade

Hometown: Hanford, CA

Major: Criminal Justice