Cristela Carrizales
Director of Professional Development & Training for Academic Advising
OU Academic Advising Resource Center
Cristela's Coaching Mindset: "I believe that coaching is being present with someone on their journey of self-discovery."
Higher Education Background:
- Bachelor's- Theater, Texas Wesleyan University.
Interests and Hobbies:
- Acting.
- Singing.
- Comedy.
- Documentaries.
Top Life Defining Moments in Higher Education:
- I'm a first generation college graduate. When my mother spoke to me, it was never "if" you go to college, but always "when" you go to college.
- I was about to quit college until I visited a friend's alma matter and the Dean of my soon-to-be department took me under his wing. He gave me a scholarship and walked me through applying for the university. His generosity changed the trajectory of my life.
- I worked with military when I lived in England for a few years. Assisting them through their collegiate journey gave me a sense of purpose. I so believe in the benefit of education, it always made me excited to see enlisted members following their goals.
While in college, I experienced:
- Difficulty building and managing successful study systems.
- Financial stress.
- Being a first-generation college student.
- Academic motivation challenges.
- Overcoming daily challenges through resiliency.
- Other- I had (and still do to some extent) anxiety and depression. I battled against it on a daily basis. I know what it is like to fight your demons just to get up and make it to class in the morning.
