Academic Services

I am a proud Latina immigrant born and raised in Colombia. My educational and personal journey brought me to the United States, and my experience as an international student sparked my interest in college access several years ago when I worked supporting international students to come to the USA to improve their english skills and to apply for college. Eventually, my work led me to higher education, where for the past eight years, I have specifically focused on supporting and advocating for first-generation and low-income students' needs in the Myra Kraft Achievers Program (MKAP) program at Brandeis. I'm thrilled to continue this work as the new administrator for the Gen One Network and contribute to strengthening the first-generation community on campus.

Being able to relate to our Gen One scholars in different aspects of their lives is crucial. It has an incalculable impact on my role in the program. My identities as a bilingual immigrant far away from family and friends, navigating a new educational system and learning to adapt to a new environment intersect with those of our Gen One community members and allow me to have a deeper empathy with their experience.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and twins, taking yoga classes, listening to spiritual books and trying international cuisines.

Hi, my name is Natalie, and I am a senior at Brandeis studying Biology and HSSP. My passion for Gen One is deeply inspired by the shared experiences and challenges faced by first-generation students. I value the unwavering support this community provides and the strong sense of belonging it creates. I especially enjoy empowering others—whether through sharing my personal experiences, offering helpful resources, or uplifting our community’s mission. Being part of Gen One is truly a blessing, and I feel proud at every event when I see the vibrant connections, meaningful conversations, and genuine support among students and staff. Witnessing the impact of our work makes this journey so rewarding.

Fun Fact: I currently work three jobs!

I'm a senior double-majoring in Neuroscience & Psychology. When I was a freshman, I was ecstatic to discover Gen One and immediately knew it was where I belonged. My passion comes from the community’s ability to foster pride, support, and empowerment for first-generation students. I especially enjoy uplifting others by sharing my experiences and creating connections that inspire growth. Being part of Gen One allows me to celebrate the strength of first-generation students and contribute to a space where we all can thrive.

I’m majoring in Environmental Studies and Anthropology, with a minor in Legal Studies. My academic focus lies at the intersection of ecology and environmental anthropology, with a particular interest in community dynamics, sustainability, and the reciprocal relationship between humans and their environment. I am passionate about how cultural practices influence ecosystems and how nature can serve as a tool for social change. At Gen One Network, I work with event coordination.

My favorite place on campus is the Fellows Gardens, where I gather with friends to study or just relax. I am passionate about Gen One because it empowers first-generation students like myself, providing the support and resources we need to thrive. My goal is to create spaces where students feel seen, heard, and inspired to achieve their full potential.

Hi everyone! My name is Tenzin, I am a senior majoring in Business and International and Global Studies with a minor in Economics. 

Finally, my favorite place on campus is my dorm!
 

I joined the Brandeis community as Dean of Academic Support and Advising in Aug. 2022 and also had previously worked at Brandeis in several roles from 1989-2005, including three years as Assistant Dean of Student Life. My career has been focused on the connections between academic and co-curricular experiences, and on empowering students to embrace their identities and achieve their aspirations. Gen One is important to me, as it celebrates the enormous contributions that first-generation students bring to the Brandeis community.