Education:
M.A., Education, Secondary Education, San Francisco State University
Credentialed in English and Health Sciences
M.A., English Language and Literature, Sonoma State University
B.A., English Language and Literature, Sonoma State University
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About Kathryn
Joined the L&S Office of Undergraduate Advising: February 2024
How did you get here?
I grew up in the Bay Area and have always had the goal of working in education alongside students. I have an MA in English and Literature, an M. Ed., and teaching credentials in English and Health Sciences. I began my career teaching English in the CSU system and then worked as an Academic Advisor, Instructional Coach, and Instructor at the secondary level for over a decade. It has always been my passion to help students attain their higher education goals and carve out their unique educational paths. I have worked with thousands of at-promise seniors, helping them attain graduation, college acceptance, and overcome individual and institutional barriers. When a former student returned and told me that they wished I could have followed them throughout their college experience, I realized that I was ready to bring my passions as an advisor back to the university level. The opportunity to work as an advisor in higher education with a vibrant and diverse community is what led me to Berkeley!
What is your advising philosophy?
As an advisor, my work is informed by inclusion, connection, and compassion. I am committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming space for all of my students to feel heard and supported. Advising is not a one-size-fits-all approach. I value a holistic and connected approach in which I take the time to understand the lived experience and needs of each of my students. I am here to meet students where they are and help guide and celebrate each of their unique pathways and definitions of success as they navigate their undergraduate experience at UC Berkeley and beyond.
What advice do you have?
You belong at Berkeley! And you can do this! But no student is expected to do it alone, so reach out, ask questions, and seek support. There are so many resources and opportunities (both inside and outside of the classroom) for you to take advantage of that will enrich your experience as an undergraduate student. Remember, the most important part of this journey is to follow the path that feels authentically right for you. Use your university experience to explore new things, get involved, evaluate what feels right for you, and even change direction. That is all part of the process and I hope that you take advantage of all the amazing people, experiences, resources, and opportunities for growth that UC Berkeley has to offer.
A little bit more about me...
My ideal day is playing outside with my children and puppy or snuggled into the corner of a coffee shop with good friends. I love a good laugh - I taught a Humor Course to high schoolers for 10 years! I am a professional photographer and love all kinds of photography. I love to garden, go camping, hike, paddleboard, and cook. My grandfather owned an Italian restaurant for the entirety of my childhood, and I spend every Sunday trying to perfect his recipes.
