Our SSHA Peer Navigators

Helen Denise Jimenez

Education: Management and Business Economics

I chose SSHA because my major specifically allows me to be flexible in a way when it comes to job opportunities. I became a Peer Navigator because not only am I helping students with their major requirements, but it also allows me to meet new people each day working here. What is better than making new friends or connections?

Something I like to do in my free time is watch anime, play with my cats and play video games with friends. 

Lauren Tang

Education: Political Science with a minor in Management and Business Economics  

I chose UC Merced because the intimate atmosphere and sense of community fostered by its smaller student body. I became a Peer Navigator because I want students to feel the same welcome, I had experienced. I understand the difficulty of managing the workload of school and want to assist my fellow peers in any way possible.

Something I enjoy doing is baking and I dream of attending culinary school after graduating from UC Merced.

Stephanie Mata

Education: Public Health

I chose SSHA because of the opportunities it is filled with, such as professional development. I became a Peer Navigator because I enjoy assisting SSHA Academic Advisors in guiding students towards academic success.

Something I enjoy doing is hanging out with friends and family, as well as trying new restaurants that involve sushi, Mexican food and Korean BBQ.

Berenice Aguirre

Education: Psychology with a minor in NSED 

I chose SSHA in hopes of eventually becoming a social worker or teacher. I became a Peer Navigator because in this position I will help a diverse group of people and I have the ability to help my peers with questions they may have about their academic paths.

Something I enjoy doing is spending time with friends or family. 

Oscar Lopez Hernandez

Education: Public Health 

I chose SSHA to be able to seek opportunities to help facilitate social change within healthcare. I became a Peer Navigator because I like to help guide people in the right direction. 

Something I enjoy doing is surfing and golfing with my friends.

Jessica Preciado

Education: Psychology 

I chose SSHA because of the wide range of disciplines and opportunities within the school. I also believe it would help me grow professionally and academically. I became a peer navigator because I remember coming in as a first year student looking for resources, and I am now happy to provide and be one of those resources. 

Something I enjoy doing is spending time with friends and family, as well as listening to others. I really enjoy being around other people and laughing with them. 

Lisa Ly

Education: Human Biology

I chose UC Merced because the campus offers a lot of opportunities for hands-on experience in research and other stem-related activities. The city itself is peaceful and calm which is perfect for staying focused on my education. I am a student assistant for the SSHA Advising Office because I enjoy helping my peers and making sure they receive the help they need.

Something I enjoy doing is going back home to see my friends as well as attending music festivals. 

Rosanelly Torres

I chose SSHA because it allows me to explore my interests. UC Merced has also allowed me to improve professionally, academically, as well as socially. Becoming a Student Assistant has given me the opportunity to connect with students in a professional setting. 

Somethings I enjoy doing are Photography and watching True Crime documentaries.