EOPS... Reach Above and Beyond for your Success!
EOPS Newsletter
Spring 2012
“Just because something is difficult it doesn‟t mean you shouldn‟t try, it means you
should try harder.”
Inside this issue:
Letter to EOPS
students
1
Counselor Faculty
Features
2-3
Student Voices
4-5
CARE Corner
6
Resources Corner
7
Edna Chavez:
Major: French
and Arabic
Minor: Arabic
Studies
Participated
in the Study
Abroad program and studied in France
and the United
Emirates
By Edna Chavez, former EOPS student/ Honor‟s Program Graduate
EOPS/CARE STAFF/FACULTY
Amy Nevarez, Counselor
Diana Sanchez, Counselor/
Coordinator
Graciela Arriaga, Program Assistant
Karen Medrano, Program Assistant
Karla Acosta, Short-Term Program
Assistant
Liliana Garcia, Program Assistant
Chino & Fontana Campuses
Maria Cuevas, Counselor
Nora Jennings, Adjunct Counselor
Richard Alvarez, Success Guide
Rosalia Ibarra, Adjunct Counselor
Robin Goodman, Administrative
Assistant II
Ruth Collins, Program Assistant
Singhi Rajan, Adjunct Counselor
Toks Oduwole, Counselor
EOPS
April– May
Mission Statement
EOPS is a community
college counseling program that provides “over
and above” academic,
personal, and financial
support to qualified community college students
whose educational and
socioeconomic backgrounds might prevent
them from successfully
attending college.
Dear EOPS student:
First of all, let me tell you how fortunate you are to engage and be part of this wonderful program. Although small, the EOPS program is a unique and valuable treasure filled with possibilities, goals and dreams. It was
here where I began my college experience marked by profound discoveries and limitless opportunities. For me this
was important, considering the multiple challenges I had to face in the process, from pursuing my studies in English to
adjusting to a different culture. The journey was not easy, often times presented with obstacles that seemed impossible to overcome. However, I was never alone, as the EOPS opportunity came with one of the most amazing group of
people I could count on. They became my counselors, my mentors and my friends, who along with my family, supported and encouraged me to continue during the toughest times of my educational quest. Little did I know of the
significant impact this experience would have on my future academic endeavors.
Later, as a former EOPS student, I became witness, once again, of the individual but infinite possibilities
education provides. My path continued, and eventually I reached another direction at California State University San
Bernardino. With encouragement and determination, I recently was able to define and achieve major goals and aspirations I had set myself to accomplish, which took me beyond borders. The result was a combination of cultural enrichment with a deeper personal insight. Yet, looking back, I realize that I could not have accomplished nor reached
where I currently stand without the support of the wonderful EOPS program.
Now, after sharing a portion of my experience with you, I would like to give you some final advice. I am
aware that life can bring a variety of difficulties for which one can or cannot be prepared. Know that there will be
always someone to aid you, to guide you and to support you when you need it the most, including the EOPS program
and its wonderful team. Be persistent, be courageous, and have faith in yourself. You will discover you have the potential to achieve all your dreams.
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS!
EOPS will be accepting applications beginning April 23rd
for Fall 2012. Services will be provided on a first come
first serve basis. Current EOPS students do not need to
reapply. You can apply at our office or online at
chaffey.edu/eops
“One’s philosophy is not best expressed in words: it is expressed in the
CHOICES one makes...In the long run, we shape our lives and we shape
ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are
ultimately OUR RESPONSIBILITY.”
- Eleanor Roosevelt
Counselor Faculty Features
“IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING”
Muhammad Ali, an American Heavyweight boxer said:
“Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men
who find it easier to live the world they've been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It's
an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It's a dare. Impossible is
potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing."
Sometimes we encounter obstacles in our educational
pathway that makes us think it is impossible to continue aspiring our
goals. It is important to remember that we have many examples of
students who have walked through similar situations and, many
times, more difficult ones.
We have many examples of people around us who use
obstacles, that seem impossible to overcome, to create the energy
that helps them thrive. You might have walked through the campus
not noticing them because they do not wear superhero gear, they
are students just like you. They have 24 hours in their day just like
you and they manage to be single parents, care for parents and siblings, work a part-time job, and attend
school full-time.
All students come through
crossroads and have difficult decisions to
make. You might not be sure which one
is the right road to take, but you should
know that they are all POSSIBLE.
Page 2
Meet Richard Alvarez our new EOPS Success
Guide!
Chaffey College- Associate‟s of Arts in Liberal
Arts and Sciences
California State University, San Bernardino- Bachelor‟s of Arts in Human Services.
Currently attending Azusa Pacific where he will be
receiving his Master‟s in College Counseling and
Student Development.
Richard describes his experience as a
former Chaffey student as challenging , but with the support and dedication he received from counselors and family
he was able to focus on his goals and earn his A.A. Richard
was also part of the first Puente Program Cohort at
Chaffey. Richard felt that the Puente Program challenged
him to “become a better student and over all person. I
enjoyed the collaboration with the
other „Puentistas‟ and the program really helped me in
becoming a better writer”. Richard was inspired to
become a counselor after obtaining so much help from his
Chaffey counselor Monica Molina Bustos. “It is my passion
to assist under represented and non-traditional college
students in accomplishing their academic goals in college,
while showing students that I deeply care about their educational progress”.
We are truly excited to have him with us!
“Success is never final, failure is never
fatal– it's courage that counts”
-John Wooden
-Ernesto D. Rivera
EOPS would like to
welcome our new
counselor, Karina Jabalera
at our Rancho office!
UC Santa Cruz (banana slug
pride!) -Bachelor‟s in History and
a minor in Education
University of La VerneMasters in Counseling
Karina was inspired to become an
EOPS counseling faculty because, as a
former EOPS student, she felt that if it
wasn't for the help of EOPS she would
not be where she is now. Karina wants
to help students who have the will and
drive to succeed, “if a student has that
drive they can do anything they set
their mind to regardless of obstacles that may arise”.
Karina also wanted to break stereotypes that might hold
some students back from achieving their goals. She believes all students should be given an equal opportunity at
obtaining a higher education regardless of their background. We are very fortunate and excited to have Karina
Jabalera as part of our EOPS family.
“Whatever you are be a good
one”
-Abraham Lincoln
―Without a plan you have no direction.‖
-Counseling Faculty, Amy Nevarez
(The process of educational planning is a very fluid process; meaning it is ever changing.)
Following a completed educational plan means that you have
answered a few basic questions.
What is my major?
How long will it take to complete My Goal if I follow my educational plan?
What courses will I need to take next semester?
Why is it important to follow an Ed-plan?
It is important to follow an Ed Plan in order to finish on time
Switching classes around might affect completing prerequisites for other
classes. This might equate to a longer stay at Chaffey.
By following an Ed Plan you have a “Road Map” to what classes you
will need to complete and in what sequence
How to take ownership of your Ed-plan?
This process is a partnership but You are ultimately responsible for your
own education-RIGHT?!
Understand the difference between IGETC, CSU General Education, Associates, GE, or Certificate requirements.
Regularly meet a counselor for an ed-plan based on the information you
gathered
Narrow down by choosing a major and school of your choice
Be prepared when you meet your EOPS counselor when developing or
changing your educational plan:
Research where you want to transfer, possible careers, have questions to ask your counselor prepared ahead of time
Remember the counselor will work with you to select classes to adequately prepare you to meet your objectives
Selecting your courses is ultimately your decision
Follow up with a counselor to stay on track
Page 3
Counselor Faculty Features
March in March
Meet Rosalia Ibarra
our new adjunct
counselor at our
Fontana and Chino
campus.
San Bernardino
Valley CollegeAssociates of Arts in
Liberal Studies.
California State University, San Bernardino- Bachelor‟s of Arts in Liberal Studies.
University of Redlands- Masters in
Counseling with her Pupil Personal Services Credential.
“Many people inspired me to
pursue this career”, as a counseling apprentice Rosalia worked
with Ruth Delgado who always
spoke highly of EOPS. “I also
worked with Maria Cuevas and
Chris Flores and I loved the connection they had with the students. I
always wanted to have that connection with
students and be a positive person to them.”
Rosalia is a great addition to our EOPS family
and we are truly excited to have her onboard.
“Nothing is impossible, the word
itself says „I‟m possible”
- Audrey Hepburn
By Diana Ceron
On Monday March 5th, Chaffey College
ASCC sponsored 11 students (selected
through an application process) to take
place in the March in March, joining fellow
community college students (and UC/CSU
students) throughout the state in order to
advocate for the continuance of educational
funding, providing students an opportunity
to ask questions and express their concerns regarding education and state policies with elected
legislators. Participating Chaffey College students, who represented various programs throughout
the campus (ASCC, EOPS/CARE, Puente, ASCC, Civics Club, Veterans, Financial Aid, etc.) vigorously shared their empowering stories and experiences with state-elected senators/assembly representatives (or designated staffers).
Students who participated during the March in March event, illustrated the importance and power
of engaging in active citizenship. Always remember the strength of your voice, and the invaluable
role you have in the direction of legislative decisions. Your voice as a student can bring home the
reality and severity of continued budgetary cuts to education, and the far reaching dire consequences those cuts have for the future of our state and wellbeing of our citizens. When the populace is educated they contribute to all aspects of the state and especially to its vital economy.
Remember your voice matters, and can make difference….
Student Advocacy Contact Information
Student senate for California Community Colleges Region IV
Mission: the student senate for California Community Colleges, Region IV serves more than
275,000 students a year at 13 colleges in 9 districts throughout the southern San Francisco Bay
Area.
Contact information: http://www.ssccc-region-iv.org/
Student Senate for California Community Colleges
Mission: Comprised of an advocacy group that protects the rights and interests of people who
are enrolled in public community colleges in California. The SSCCC has opposed decreases in
public funding for education and it has opposed increases in student fees.
Contact information: http://www.studentsenateccc.org/
Brain Challenge
Phrase Scramble
Unscramble the tiles
to reveal a famous
quote.
NumberBlock
What‟s a numberblock you ask? A numberblock is a
group of numbers formed in a block. The numbers
in each row add up to the totals to the right. The
numbers in each column add up to the totals along
the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the totals
to the right. Some of the numbers are missing. You
fill in the missing numbers.
The missing numbers are integers between 0 and 12.
For answers see the reference corner page
Page 4
Student Voices
Former EOPS graduating students sharing their amazing successful stories
Maria Gabriela Aguirre
EOPS and Honor’s
Program Graduate
Spring 2010
“Keep your eyes
on the prize and
never, ever give
up because you
Karla Acosta
are a success
EOPS Graduate story in the
Spring 2011
making”
“ I encourage all
students to get
involved in college,
join a club, start
your own club, or
look for a job on
campus”
I would describe my experience at Chaffey College and EOPS as unique. I
started by being recruited at Fontana High School by Ernesto Rivera and
Graciela Arriaga (EOPS staff), and since that day on, my life changed.
Ernesto guided me through the process of applying for school and financial
aid. In 2007, I started the Summer Readiness Program. It helped me to get
to know the campus and to experience the college journey. I felt I needed
to give something back to EOPS to thank them for all their help, so I began
working as a peer advisor. The experience as a student worker was great! I
was able to get more involved in college activities; I was able to get to
know people from different departments. I learned about services available
on campus that benefit students both financially and academically. The most
rewarding part was being able to contribute to students‟ success in college.
Now, I am happily attending University of California, Riverside knowing that
I have given all of me at Chaffey and that I had a good time with my EOPS
family.
In my senior year of high school, I lacked the confidence
to attend college; like many people I wanted to further my
education but did not know where to begin. Then, the
EOPS representatives came to my high school and helped
me register for college and apply to the EOPS program.
Before I knew it, I was graduating high school and beginning college the following week. The summer of 2008, I
was given the tools I needed to be a successful college
student by taking Guidance 2 to prepare me for the Fall. I
could not have done it without the help of the EOPS Program; their counselors gave me the confidence I needed
to believe in myself and obtain my Associates degree in
2011. Now, I am proud to say that I‟m attending the California State University, San Bernardino and majoring in
psychology.
Bennett Chavez
EOPS Graduate
Fall 2010
Major: Civil Engineering
Chaffey Experience: 2010 Associate in Arts Degree in Liberal Arts & Sciences with Honors
2010 Associate in Arts, University Studies: Mathematics & Science
with Honors. 2011 Associate in Arts Degree in Engineering. 2011 Associate in Arts Degree in Physics
Advice for EOPS students: Focus on your goals—know what you want,
get good grades and follow your educational path.
“Si las cosas fueran fáciles de hacerse, cualquier persona las
haría.”
Translation: “If things were that easy, everybody would do them.”
Shanta Dorsey
EOPS/CARE Graduate
Fall 2009
Chaffey Experience: 2009 Associates in
Arts, University Studies: Social Sciences,
2010 Associates in Arts, Psychology
By participating in the CARE Program,
Shanta received tremendous academic support through her counselor and peers. Shanta learned to juggle work, kids and school and
made the best of it by staying focused. Shanta feels that CARE provided her with great ways to balance life and school. Shanta says that
CARE “is a place of comfort. It gives us an insight on finding our inner strength… empowerment so that we can achieve whatever we
thought was unachievable.” Shanta will be receiving her Bachelor‟s
degree this May from California State University, San Bernardino.
Cynthia Ulloa
EOPS Graduate
Spring 2010
“Always believe in
what you do and
never give up even if
you fail . Put your
trust in God and
nothing will bring
you down. Also,
never forget your
roots; who you are
now will determine
who you will be in
the future.”
After graduating from Eisenhower High School in 2007, I
decided to attend Chaffey College to further my education
and become a provider for my parents. It was a great challenge because I was lost; I had no direction on the steps to
take in starting college much less what major to focus on. I
remember, my first year of college, I was not interested in
staying after school. I never thought that being familiarized
with the services on campus would have made a difference
in my perspective about college. My gratitude goes to David
Campio from Online to College for introducing me to the
EOPS Program. He not only encouraged me to apply, but he
also guided me throughout the process. Being part of the
EOPS Program was a great blessing not only because of the
benefits it offered, but most importantly because of the
counseling services available. Counselors made me feel welcome and less intimidated about college. Also, I was able to
ask questions and get the appropriate responses. Furthermore, being a Peer Advisor at EOPS helped me learn more
about the program and grow as a person. Everyday, I was
able to learn something new and use it in my personal life. I
graduated from Chaffey College in Spring 2010 and have
been attending California State University, San Bernardino
since Spring 2011. So far, I have accomplished many goals
that I never thought I would have done without the help
from all the staff and faculty of the EOPS Program.
Student Voices
Congratulations to EOPS Students who made
it on the Dean’s List for the Fall Semester!
Daisy A. Acevedo-Rivas
Zenaida Y. Alcazar
Shirley A. Allen
Heidi L. Bayer
Fransisco Benitez
Jazmine M. Bennett
Joshua A. Blew
Jacob M. Brunner
Bianca J. Caldwell
Jessica Carlin
Erick R. Cespedes
Deyanira A. Chaires
Araceli J. Cortez
Veronica I. Cuellar
Tamara S. Davies
Jorge A. Delgadillo
Corinne M. Espinoza
Fidencio Farias
Alexandria M. Felix
Javon M. Fowler
Angelica J. Garcia
Francisco J. Garcia
Melissa S. Garcia
Miguel A. Garcia
Janet Gonzalez
Robert Grasso
Luis Guerrero
Azar Hamrang
Jade H. Hernandez
Hamid N. Jafary
Hananeh Jafary
Amani A. Kahala
Stephanie M. La Vau
Domonique M. Legat
Theresa M. Liberto
Chen Liu
Ruby L. Lizama
Katherine Lomeli
Corinna C. Martinez
Moses N. Medel
Julia Melendez
Melissa M. Melgares
Monica A. Melgoza
Erik A. Miranda
Stephanie J. Nuno
Tracy A. Olmedo
Suzanne Pen
Daniel F. Reyes
Juana M. Reyes
Finis E. Robbins, IV
Joanne L. Roberts
Luisa Y. Rojas
Norma M. Romero
Crystal D. Rosendo
Alan Saavedra
Colleen M. Solanto
Violeta Soria
Sotheavy Sou
Breanna K. Stroner
Janielle R. Torrez
William Turner
Cynthia Uribe
Cassandra V. Vasquez
Miguel A. Viramontes, JR
Nicole M. Williams
Congratulations EOPS
students for your outstanding performance
and dedication!
This is a snapshot of our EOPS students
with an exemplary GPA (4.0)
Violet Canales
Joseph L. Cascio
Luis Q. Guerrero
Jose S. Lara Torres
Eui S. Lee
Virginia H. Lucero
Anthony M. Navarro
Javier J. Navarro
Tam C. Nguyen
Felix A. Padilla
Aline A. Sallakian
Gustavo Sanchez
Lupeolo Siulua
Ngoc D. Tran
Moises M. Vargas
Page 5
Going above and beyond!
Meet an EOPS student who is part of Chaffey’s Honors Program
Name: Norma Romero
Major: Nursing (ADN)
Career Goal: Bachelor‟s in Nursing
What is the most rewarding part
about being in the Honors Program?:
“Being part of the Honor‟s Program has
given me the confidence to become a more
successful student and set higher goals.”
Spring Break Destination, UC Berkeley!
Name: Gabriel Miranda
Major: Political Science
Career goal: Considering Law School
Tell us about your trip?
―I went to visit UC Berkeley during my
spring break. I felt that is was a real eye opening
experience because I got a feel of the campus and
came back with a better idea o f which university
is right for me to attend.“
What is the UC Berkeley Summer Intensive program?
―The summer intensive program is a very competitive program where only a little over a hundred potential transfer students are
selected. The program focuses on helping students make the transition
from a community college to a university a little bit easier, by taking
courses in the summer that will prepare us for what is to expect upon
transferring in the Fall.”
Would you recommend that other students consider participating?
―Yes, I would definitely recommend students to participate in
trips to different universities. I also recommend students to visit the
Transfer Center and take advantage of the resources it has to offer.”
Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) Corner
Page 6
Greetings CARE students! The end of the semester is almost here -- already!
Keep persisting as you are achieving another step forward on your road to success.
Remember to pace yourself in trying to manage your stress as the semester hurdle
is almost complete. Hoping you finish well – EOPS/CARE is always there for you.
CARE Counseling Hours are:
Wednesdays: 8:00; 9:30-11:30; 2-3:00pm; Walk-Ins 11:30-Noon
Thursdays: 8:30-9:30; Noon-12:30; 3:00; 5:00-6:00 pm Walk-Ins 12:30-1:00 pm
CARE workshops
When: Friday April 20th
Time: 10:00am– 1:00pm
Where: MACC 208
Theme: Professionalism Workshop
When: Friday May 4th
Time: 11:00am– 2:00pm
Where: MACC 208
Theme: Educational Celebration
CARE Eligibility:
Are you an EOPS Student?
Are you a single parent who can benefit
with additional resources?
Do you receive cash aid from the
county?
Do you have at least a child under 14
year of age?
If so, you may qualify for CARE
Please feel free to inquire with your EOPS
counselor or call the EOPS front desk at
(909) 652-6349 for more information.
Student Spotlight Stories
Nicole Mitchell, mother of three, is
currently participating in the Chaffey
Associate Degree of Nursing program
(ADN). Despite experiencing challenges, Nicole continues her educational path with great excitement and
passion.
Angela McKindley, mother of two, is
currently attending CSU San Bernardino as a Social Work major. Angela
is currently working part-time at the
financial aid office and is serving as a
mentor for the CARE program.
These are just a few of many successful CARE student stories.
You too can become a successful CARE student...
Five Most Helpful Tips for Academic Success from Nicole Mitchell:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
Do not be afraid to talk to your instructors— Ask what they want
from you as a student.
As soon as you receive the syllabus, start reading—you can never get too far
ahead.
Take your own notes while your are reading—then when the
teacher lectures you will understand the material even better.
Take only as much as you can handle.
Study, Study and Study—form study groups and/or be a leader.
Resource Corner
Page 7
IMPORTANT DATES
END TERM:
April 16—May 23
Don‟t forget to complete your
term dates. To make an appointment call (909) 652-6349 or
come to our office.
Priority Registration Dates
SUMMER: May 4th
FALL: July 5th
Do Not Forget:
Follow Your ED– Plan!
Register on Time!
Submit your registration
receipt for Fall 2012
TEST YOUR SKILLS
Did you know you can
access and print your
own Counselor-Approved
Educational Plan through
My Chaffey View?
Simply Log on to My
Chaffey View, scroll
under Academic Planning
and Click on CounselorApproved Educational
Plan
CHECK IT OUT!!!
Students must be in good
standing to be eligible for priority benefit
Career Fair At
Chaffey College
Mentor Panel Workshop
When: Tuesday April 24
Where: Campus Quad
Time: 11 am– 2 pm
Come and hear the stories of former
Chaffey College EOPS students and
professionals who through determination and sacrifice have been able
to fulfill their goals.
SEE YOU THERE!
Visit: www.chaffey.edu/gcc
When: Thursday, April 26, 2012
Where: MACC- 208
Time: 12:00 - 1:00pm
CARE MEETING DATES
When: Friday April 20th
Time: 10:00am– 1:00pm
Where: MACC 208
Theme: Professionalism Workshop
When: Friday May 4th
Time: 11:00am– 2:00pm
Where: MACC 208
Theme: Educational Celebration
Brain Challenge
Answers
Phrase scramble:
I have never let my
schooling interfere with
my education.
- Mark Twain
Everybody is Welcomed!
Strongly encouraged to sign up
Light snacks and refreshments will
be available
Contact Us for More Information
(909) 652-6349