Maritza attended Cal Poly Humboldt majoring in Social work. The Cal Poly Humboldt focus on decolonizing Social work inspired Maritza. This is clear in the work she does today as an SSS Advisor.

“With advising I love connecting with different people, as a First Gen graduate, I know that there are challenges when navigating college. Being able to build relationships with students with similar backgrounds allows us to empower one another and thrive from the challenges we have faced. “she told us.

This isn’t Maritza’s first job in the EOP/SSS office. While she was a student she worked as a Peer Advisor. In her words, “Being a Peer advisor with EOP taught me how much community is built through EOP. Being part of EOP empowers students to succeed in whatever goals they have. EOP creates a sense of belonging, there are opportunities to connect with people from similar backgrounds and learn from each other. It’s nice to know you are supported by a program like EOP when the college experience can be challenging to the nontraditional students.”

When Maritza isn’t helping EOP/SSS students, she enjoys clearing her head at the beach, reading and painting with friends.

When asked what makes Cal Poly Humboldt special Maritza told us, it comes down to the people, Humboldt’s small size allows space to build more relationships with students, staff, and faculty. It allows space for creativity, self-expression and embracing our different backgrounds. 

When it comes to making a difference Maritza said, “I hope to meet students where they are in their educational journey. And to support them in meeting their goals while they prioritize themselves, while acknowledging that they have opportunities to grow while having room to build a community of support. “

She drove that home, offering a few words of wisdom, “Remember that you belong here, college is a time to build community and relationships, connect with those that consistently build you up and motivate you to achieve your goals. The college journey is not linear, be kind to yourself throughout the ups and downs and remember you have support.”