Arman Liwanag

Job title: 
L&S College Adviser
Department: 
Math & Physical Sciences
Bio/CV: 

Title: L&S College Adviser

Neighborhood

Math & Physical Sciences

Make an appointment:

To make a virtual appointment with this adviser, book here.


Joined the office in:
January 2023

Education

M.Ed, Higher Education, Student Affairs, and International Education Policy (concentration in Student Affairs), University of Maryland, 2020
B.A., Psychology and Social Behavior (minors in Asian American Studies and Educational Studies), UC Irvine, 2013>

How did you get here?
I was introduced to the higher education field back as an undergrad at UC Irvine. As a first-generation college student, I wanted to give back to my community and share my experiences applying to and attending college with other soon-to-be first-gen college students. I participated in our Filipinx/a/o student organization's High School Outreach Program and guided high school students through the college application process while discussing identity and leadership development. This sparked my interest in working with students! Throughout college, I served as a student leader in various capacities: our Fil-Am club, as a peer mentor for first-gen students, as a discussion section leader for undeclared students, as a new student orientation leader, and as a student activist. 

These leadership roles were incredibly transformative for me and shaped my professional aspirations. Upon graduating, I worked at a non-profit providing college access and affordability advising as well as teaching an Asian American Studies class for mostly first-generation and low-income high school students in the city that raised me: San Francisco. I later pursued my master's degree in Student Affairs so I can be better equipped in supporting the holistic development and success of minoritized college students. I have since worked as an academic advisor at University of Maryland, San Francisco State University, and now UC Berkeley, supporting students from a variety of backgrounds with a range of interests, goals, and experiences.


What is your advising philosophy?
My approach to advising is centered in fostering meaningful relationships with students, understanding their unique needs and aspirations, and equipping them with the tools to promote their holistic development as students, professionals, and change agents. I see advising as a collaborative process in which we will learn from each other so I can more effectively support you and hold you accountable to your goals, overall wellness, and success. With my background in ethnic studies and social justice, I strive to always keep equity at the center!

What advice do you have for L&S students in general?
First and foremost, you belong here! Getting involved on campus—whether it's a student organization, an on-campus job, or a university-sponsored program—can help students not only build their community, but also better understand themselves, cultivate useful skills, and learn about the world around them. Additionally, it is ok (and very important) to rest and ask for help—you don't have to do this alone! Take care of yourself: take your study breaks, do what brings you joy, surround yourself with a strong support system, and utilize your resources (including L&S Advising)!

A little more about me:
Outside of work, you can find me in the kitchen trying to perfect my mom's Filipino recipes, exploring cities through their food and public transportation systems, and dancing/singing to R&B, Broadway musicals, and anything Beyoncé!