Class of 2022 Spotlights: Family and Consumer Sciences
The mission of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences is to prepare leaders for the family and consumer sciences professions and focuses on teaching, scholarship and service to and about individuals, families, and communities in a diverse, dynamic society.
While we commend and celebrate all CHHS graduates, here are a few graduates whose stories stand out because of their determination to overcome challenges, to follow their dreams, and to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
As a new student, Alissa Herrera was one of the millions of students who started school in the midst of the pandemic. Alissa was able to overcome the challenges of these difficult circumstances with hard work and the support of faculty.
Alissa, a Child Development and Family Studies major, loves working with younger children and decided to pursue a career path in teaching because she wants to be the voice and advocate for younger children. She hopes to continue her journey here at CSULB by obtaining her teaching credential and eventually a Masters in Education.
Haley Adel: M.S. Nutritional Science with Dietetic Internship
While completing the MS program in Nutritional Science, Haley Adel was able to remain active in NCAA Track and field and involved in her campus community by being a part of the Students Active in Community Health Club and being a Grad Assistant within her program.
Haley chose a career path in nutrition and dietetics because she believes this field is an essential aspect of preventative health. As a registered dietician, Haley hopes to develop programs that promote nutrient dense intake to prevent and manage chronic diseases. One of the most important things that Haley learned during her time at CSULB is to not be afraid to ask for help since there are so many people, from faculty to classmates, who are willing to support your dreams. “I am so thankful for those at CSULB who helped me during my program, and I work to be there for those who need help.”
Kristine Yada, who is completing the Master of Science in Nutritional Science Program, believes the most meaningful thing she gained from her time at CSULB is the invaluable nature of mentorship. Having been both a mentee and mentor during her time here, Kristine has experienced a continuous period of self-growth and learning from the guidance she has received and is fortunate to have had the opportunity to pay it forward by mentoring others. “I believe that one of the biggest strengths of the CSULB community is the oneness that you feel from both faculty, students and alumni.”
One of the biggest challenges Kristine faced during her time at CSULB was transitioning to a new campus remotely, but despite the unique circumstances, Kristine overcame these challenges by being involved in the campus community. She received welcoming interactions from faculty members when she was involved in the BUILD undergraduate research program and developed a personal attachment to undergraduate students and programs when she became a graduate mentor. “I feel like a thriving member of the CSULB family. To me, the fact that the word “family” comes to mind when I think of fellow students and faculty highlights the value that I place on this community and the sense of belongingness that I have developed during my time here.”
