Sal is a UCSB alum from the class of 2021. He graduated with B.A.s in Sociology and Chicano/a Studies and minors in LGBTQ+ Studies and Applied Psychology. He is honored to return to UCSB as an Undergraduate Academic Advisor for the Communication Department. He was a transfer student from Santa Barbara City College (SBCC). While studying at SBCC and working as a Peer Mentor for incoming students, Sal became passionate in advocating for underrepresented and marginalized college students. After transferring to UCSB, he was part of the Transfer Student Center and the Educational Opportunity Program, volunteered for CALPIRG and gained research experience working with elementary school students for the department of Counseling, Clinical and School Psychology. Sal is a proud son to a single, immigrant mother from Michoacan, Mexico. He moved to the U.S. in 2014 in hopes of achieving a better life and better educational opportunities. He enjoys painting, exercising, exploring new cultures, traveling to new places, and listening to Latin music and female Hip-Hop. He hopes to pursue and attain a Masters in School Counseling for Higher Education. He is particularly interested in helping first-gen students overcome some of the many challenges he experienced navigating the complex higher education system.
One of two undergraduate advisors, Sal provides individual academic advising to 1800+ pre- and full- majors in Communication. He advises students and faculty on all aspects of undergraduate affairs (i.e. major requirements, academic planning, course requirements, academic problems, transfer coursework, independent studies, internship opportunities and graduation, etc.). He processes student petitions as needed, interfaces with
other advising offices, and works as a leading team member with student peer advisors. He communicate colleges policies to students and provides input to the Student Affairs Manager, Department Chair, and the Undergraduate Affairs Committee regarding a wide variety of issues affecting students.