Meet Your Academic Advisor

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I was the first in my family to attend college and it was difficult navigating the higher education system. I want to be a resource and support system for those that have questions or concerns. I also want to assist our students in their path towards graduation and empower them to become the leaders they strive to be.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

I was a commuter student and would only be on campus for my classes. Once classes ended, I would leave school. My advice would be to get involved and take advantage of all the resources the campus has. Meet other students and join one of the many clubs that are offered or create your own.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

As a Ravenclaw (Harry Potter reference), I enjoy visiting the Harry Potter section at Universal Studios. Nothing beats having a Butterbeer in front of the castle!

Pronouns

He/Him/His

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

One of the best feelings I have experienced is completing my degree requirements and obtaining my degree. I thoroughly enjoy helping students reach that same milestone!

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

I would go back and tell myself to ask for help when I need it! I would have saved myself a lot of time, money, and stress.

What's one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

Alaska! I would love to explore the vast landscape, outdoor activities, and of course, see the Northern Lights.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

My passion is helping students be successful and achieve their college dream!

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

Machu Picchu, Peru. I love hiking and exploring - especially challenging hikes and this looks challenging!

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I enjoy exercising, taking walks, hiking and watching my kids sports games.

Pronouns

She/Her/Ella

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I enjoy assisting and supporting college students. Being a college student can be difficult and stressful. As an academic advisor, I want to be there as a guide and support system for my students.

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to about the academic year? 

Working with the Huntley College Peer Advisors and hosting group advising sessions for my incoming students to help them get better acquainted with advising/academic tools and resources.

What’s your favorite food and why? 

Pasta! It is easy and can be made in so many different ways.

Pronouns

She/Her

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I became an advisor almost accidentally. I had returned to school in the 1990s to start a career in the computer field. While I was here, I became a peer advisor, and discovered that I loved helping students.

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to about the academic year? 

Getting to do in-person events.

What’s your favorite animal and why? 

Dogs: I spent a lot of my life raising, training and showing them. Now I just spoil them.

Pronouns

She/They

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why?

I love that the campus is full of nature. I love walking through the rose and Japanese garden and enjoying the scenery. The fact that we have horses on campus is so cool.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

GET INVOLVED! It was very hard for me to get out of my comfort zone when I was an undergrad.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

I have so many places on my travel bucket list. My next domestic trip will be to Glacier National Park for the hiking and beautiful scenery.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I didn't utilize advising enough in college. With little guidance, I made a lot of mistakes and took far longer to graduate than necessary. But after graduating, I looked back fondly at some of the best experiences I did have with supportive folks in college. This included my first and last (which were my only) advising sessions. At the beginning I found someone to listen to me and lay out a plan as an incoming, unsure freshman. And at the end, my faculty advisor helped me correct a lot of the mistakes I had made, enabling me to graduate despite them. If only I had sought out support between these two times! As a career, I decided I wanted to be that person at the beginning and end, as well as the journey in between.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

Make the tough choices. Don't take the easy way out. Work hard and power through. Believe in yourself, your abilities and your strength. You can succeed at a higher level than you ever imagined.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

I have to visit Italy. My family is Italian, and I have yet to make it to the home country. There is so much to see. I am afraid it will take so long so I never take the first step. (Life lesson there!) I need to just plan the first trip. I will probably go first to the ruins of Pompeii, and then go step by step until I have all my dreams fulfilled.

Pronouns

He/Him/His

What's your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

The animals on campus.

What's your favorite food and why? 

I like chocolate chip cookies -- I'm a cookie monster!

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I like to watch food shows.

Preferred Pronouns 

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor?

I became an Academic Advisor because I enjoy bringing holistic support to students as they navigate their journey in higher education. I want to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself?

I would tell my younger self that it's okay to not have everything together. Life happens in multiple ways, but find your support system. Failure can also be success if you learn from it and apply it towards your new outcomes.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I love amusement parks, traveling, and food. 

Pronouns

He/Him/His

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor?

At a very young age, I knew I wanted to have a career in education. I was not sure what area I wanted to go in, but I knew I wanted to work in the field of education. As a community college student, I had a chance to work for an early start program that inspired me to pursue a career in higher education. Ever since then, I have had the opportunity to work for different higher education institutions and get to know students from all walks of life. I feel very grateful for the opportunity to get to know students and guide them through their educational path.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself?

My first semester as a college student was stressful because I was the first person in my family to go to college, and I was an English as a second language student. I made mistakes because I was too shy to ask questions. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to be brave and ask questions. The path gets easier when you have available resources and the correct information.

What’s your favorite food and why?

My favorite food is Mexican, and my favorite dish is red/green enchiladas. Aside from loving the flavors in this dish, I enjoy it because it takes me back to my childhood memories of having dinner as a family in Mexico. I lived in Mexico for 12 years, and I have beautiful memories of my town.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there?

Traveling is something that I really enjoy! One place that is on my travel bucket list is New Zealand. I had a professor that would take students there to study abroad and students had great experiences. My professor shared videos and photos of the beautiful scenery there and I would want to experience that in the future.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I started my college journey as a Former Foster Youth: lost, confused and no idea what I was suppose to do. Despite this, I succeeded beyond many challenges. How? I had an academic advisor on my side. I knew I wanted to help other students achieve their wildest dreams. It is an honor to be an academic advisor and join you on your journey. No matter what you are facing, we can face it together!

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I became an advisor to help students navigate through the craziness of college.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

You're not alone and you're not expected to get through college alone. It's not only OK to ask for help, it's expected! No one is going to question your presence in college if you don't know everything.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

Read! I love getting lost in a good book and seeing life through the character's eyes.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I became an advisor for a few reasons. One, I had wished I had an advisor as an undergrad to navigate through my college experiences. Two, I enjoy guiding and helping students meet or exceed their educational goals to maximize their college experience. Three, it is very rewarding to see my students evolve into amazing and successful lifelong learners. They reach their goals and continue on to their professionals careers or pave their way through their higher education journey. I believe our students are amazing individuals who are dynamic, innovative, passionate, skilled, versatile, and will advance as socially responsible leaders that will positively impact our future.

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to about the academic year? 

I hope the academic year brings new beginnings, awareness, and a strong community experience.

What’s your favorite food and why? 

I enjoy all cuisines, from Japanese sushi and ramen to ethiopian dishes like Keye Siga Wot and other tasty foods from around the world. I love a variety of foods, the cultures, the yummy flavors...the whole experience!

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I became an advisor because I want to make a positive impact in a student's college journey.

What's your favorite food and why? 

I enjoy really spicy food and always gravitate towards Pad Thai and wings, because I can order those two foods really spicy.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I enjoy playing video games and spending quality time with my wife, baby daughter, and our dogs.

Pronouns

He/Him

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I decided to become an academic advisor because I value education. When I was an undergraduate student, I didn't know what an academic advisor was and never went to see them. Now, I understand the importance of meeting with an academic advisor to help you plan out your courses and discuss any doubts or issues you may be having with your academics.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

Choose a major you are most interested in or subject you are really good at. Your major will not have an impact on the career you choose in your future.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I like to spend time with my son, I like to go out for walks in the park, and try new restaurants and bars.

Pronouns

She/Her

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I wanted to help as many students as possible to graduate and help them become successful.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

Save your money! Don't spend your extra financial aid money on random stuff.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I am a huge sports fan and I enjoy exercising. I am also a big movie buff, and I enjoy hanging out with my dog Harrison. 

Pronouns

He/Him/His

Why did you decide to become an an advisor?

I decided to become an academic advisor to assist students the same way my advisors helped me. I am a first generation, transfer student and always felt on my own, until I got help from an academic advisor who helped me outline my plan and reach my goals!

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself?

One piece of advice I’d give myself is not to give up! I feel that I gave up on myself very early on in my college career, and because of that, I struggled for more time than I anticipated.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like to watch anime, watch reruns of Friends, and learn how to make my own coffee.

Pronouns

She/Her

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

The beauty of the campus and the number of staff who have devoted many years of service to our campus. It is a real testament to CPP to have so many individuals that have committed the number of years they have.

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to about the academic year? 

A new group of excited students, and continuing to build on the foundation already established with our continuing students.

What’s your favorite animal and why? 

My two pups- Hopps and Barlee. They provide me comfort when I need it most and always keep our family laughing!

Pronouns

She/Her

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I became an academic advisor because I enjoy guiding students to success. In the process, helping them see their strengths and growth.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

Always believe in yourself even if things are not according to plan.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

Costa Rica because I want to experience the beauty of some of it's forest and waterfalls.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I decided to become an academic advisor to guide and empower students in higher education. It is rewarding to witness my former and current students graduate and achieve their goals.

What's your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

What I enjoy most about CPP is working with students and spending time at the Japanese Garden.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

During my free time, I enjoy hiking, spending time outdoors, reading and listening to music.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I didn’t go through college the traditional way. I went to a community college and then transferred to a four-year, and I felt the transition to be challenging. I wanted to become an academic advisor to be there for students that may feel the same way. I want to be an advocate for students and be a resource so they can achieve their academic goals.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

I would tell myself to really take it all in. When I was an undergrad I was so eager to graduate and see what was next and it flew by! Take it day by day and enjoy being a student.

What's your favorite animal and why? 

My favorite animal is a lion! I was obsessed with lion king as a child and loved Nala and Simba, so much that I named my dog Nala.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I became an academic advisor so that I can help students achieve their academic goal.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

One piece of advice I'd give myself would be to take the opportunity to study abroad.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there?

I've always wanted to travel to Ireland to see the Cliffs of Moher.

Pronouns

She/Her/Ella

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

I love the diversity and inclusiveness throughout the campus, and love seeing others who look like me.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

Create & build your community throughout your academic journey. College is not meant to be done alone.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

Watch Netflix or Hulu with my family.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I decided to become an academic advisor because I had such a great experience with my advisor in undergraduate. I also fell in love with working in higher education after having such a positive college experience.

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

It is such a beautiful campus! I also love the people that work here! They are great colleagues! 

What’s your favorite food and why? 

Sushi and french fries- obviously not together! :)

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I became an advisor to assist students of all backgrounds! There are so many barriers that students face, and my hope is to help alleviate those. I hope to create relationships with students, so they know they always have help.

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

The staff/faculty are amazing! They are so welcoming and caring, and they really care about each and every student. The campus is beautiful and I love seeing the animals.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

Greece or Barbados! Greece is beautiful and I've always wanted to go. Barbados is special to me because my family is from there. Everyone in my family has visited except me, so I hope to make the trip soon (I was supposed to go as a graduation gift, then the pandemic hit).

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She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I wanted to give back to the community that helped me get into college. I was an Upward Bound student here at Cal Poly Pomona. I truly believe that without the advisors' guidance, I would not be where I am today. Counselors and advisors are critical support systems to student success and I hope to be a pillar for our students.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself?

As a former commuter student, I really wished I pushed myself more to be involved in student activities. I worked part-time while attending full-time classes, so I often left campus to go straight to work. I would go back and try to join a club/organization.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there?

I just recently crossed off my number one place. Last winter, I was able to visit South Korea. I love K-pop and K-dramas, and of course the scenery. My friend currently teaches there and it was a great time with her. I am hoping to go to Europe next.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

Two reasons. The first is that I personally enjoyed my undergraduate experience. It is a special period in life when a person is growing in various ways, mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Another reason was due to my internship at CSULA Career Center. I discovered that working with the college population was a great fit.

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

I enjoy my coworkers and the students who attend CPP. The Collins College students are so resilient and hardworking. I admire how they are so dedicated to their academics while working and/or taking care of their family. They are truly inspirational.

What’s your favorite food and why? 

Anything my mom makes. Nothing beats that!

Pronouns

He/Him/His

Why did you decide to become an advisor? 

I decided to become an advisor because of my own experience as a first generation college student. I didn't want other students to miss out on opportunities and experience that would benefit them in the future. Today, I strive to offer my students guidance to understand how their degree will help them reach their goals.

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

Cal Poly Pomona is a beautiful campus, and I feel blessed to work for such a fantastic university that encourages students to “learn by doing.” I believe in this same philosophy and incorporate this concept and practice in my daily work with students.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself?

I would have communicated with my professors regularly. At the time, I didn't understand what office hours were. I would have made more time to visit my professors to ask questions about the lectures and assignments.

Pronouns

She/Her

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

Really take in the undergrad experience. While it was stressful at times, I wish that I was more involved. The days were long, but the years went by in the blink of an eye. Undergrad is a really special time in your life that you won't experience again - stop and smell the flowers!

What's one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

I really want to go to Switzerland because the views look incredible and it is very unique. Also, I obviously want to try Swiss cheese and chocolate straight from the source! I can't wait to see for myself one day!

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I love to travel, spend time with family and friends, bake, read books, and go to hockey games!

Pronouns

She/Her

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I want to support students in reaching their goals and be successful in their career.

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

I love the nature around campus. It is very calming.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what's one piece of advice you'd give to yourself? 

To be more involved on clubs and programs on campus.

Pronouns

He/Him/His

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

I'd tell myself to be more proactive in seeking help as soon as I noticed I was struggling, and work less hours. I'd also stress the importance of getting involved in a club or some sort of campus activity. I feel like I missed out on so much!

What’s your favorite food and why? 

I love spaghetti! It's such a comforting food to me, and for some reason it reminds me of Halloween (which also happens to be my favorite holiday).

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I like to go hiking, and spend time with family and friends.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

Most of my undergrad, I enjoyed involving myself in mentoring positions and being able to be a friendly face students can go to for help. I want to keep fostering that line of support and help students achieve their academic goals.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

I would give myself more grace and allow myself to enjoy the moment because everything is about learning, nothing will be perfect, and everything will be okay!

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

Iceland to visit the Northern Lights. I want to gaze up at the phenomena of green, red, and purple lights flickering across the sky.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I want to help students reach their highest potential. As a first-generation Latina, I didn't have much guidance when I started college. But I met advisors along the way who helped me achieve my academic and career goals. I want to be a guide for our students during their time at CPP and beyond.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

Start making connections early. Your classmates, advisors, and campus community are great resources. If you ever have any questions or need any guidance, someone on this campus can and will help you.

What’s your favorite food and why? 

Tacos. I just love a good taco. The best tacos in Pomona are Tijuana Tacos!

Pronouns

She/Her

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I wanted to be in a space where I could directly help students in reaching their goals. As a first generation student, I learned how to navigate through the university on my own before I was connected to key mentors. I hope to be able to connect students to opportunities, resources, and be there for whatever their needs are.

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

The horses. I was able to take an equestrian class in my undergrad. It was the best class that I took that was outside my major. The horses brought so much joy and peace each class.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

Puerto Vallarta. I have lots of happy memories from my childhood there. As a little kid, we would spend time there with my grandparents.

Pronouns

She/Her/Ella

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

Entering a university can be very challenging. It is a whole new way of life. I greatly enjoy assisting students in navigating the university journey. Every student has a story and great ambitions to make contributions to society. It is more than fun to see the lights in their eyes when they excitedly tell me about their recent accomplishments and aspirations.

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

CPP is a beautiful campus! As an academic advisor in the College of Science, I am fortunate to be surrounded by people who have a genuine care for the future of our students. I believe CPP fosters great support and inclusion on all levels.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

I have been to 48 of the 50 states, Mexico, Canada, Colombia, Brazil, Iceland, England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland, France, Germany, Spain, Hungary, Italy, Czech Republic, Greece, Korea, Cambodia, Japan, Thailand, and a few islands in the Caribbean. I have not yet gone to India or the Benelux countries. Those are definitely on the the to-do list, as well as Costa Rica. 

Pronouns

He/Him

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I was a lecturer at CPP and I really enjoyed the 1:1 mentoring that I was doing with my students during offices hours. Sometimes students would ask me help to finding resources or advice on classes to consider and I really enjoyed doing this so I decided to change careers and move towards academic advising.

What’s your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

I love the faculty and staff. Since I was a student here, the faculty and staff have always been very kind, helpful, and encouraging.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself?

It is okay to change your mind and decide to do something different. Life is nonlinear.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I decided to become and academic advisor because of what my advisor did for me at my community college. She helped me through a tough time where I did not know what I wanted to do or if I even wanted to continue with my education. She inspired me with how she pulled me out of that slump. I strive to have that kind of impact of the students I work with. I want to be able to help students in a way that is meaningful and productive. This is why I am here today, ready to help all the students of Cal Poly Pomona!

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to about the academic year?

The thing I am looking forward too this academic year is just getting to know and help the students of CPP. I want to make a difference by supporting our students and hopefully getting them to where they want to go!

What is your favorite food and why?

I love pupusas! My family came from El Salvador where pupusas came to be and I just remember eating them as a kid and loving them. To this day I consider them my favorite food right next too yuca con chicharron!

Pronouns

He/Him/His

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I decided to become an advisor because I am committed to helping students reach their educational goals and become college graduates.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself?

The advice I would give myself in undergrad would be to prioritize time management for a successful college experience.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

I would love to visit Italy for the amazing landmarks and fabulous food.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

As a first-generation student, I understand the importance of having guidance while navigating educational systems. I have a deep-seated belief that education has the power to transform a person's life. Being able to help others find their way through their educational journey is a way of making an impact in our society.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

If I could go back in time to when I was an undergraduate student, I would nudge myself to visit the career center early on. I would also encourage my younger self to visit professors' office hours as a resource. Now, I know that these practices can have a huge impact on a student's educational career.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

In my free time, I enjoy reading, hiking, visiting museums, attending concerts, and watching Dodger games with my family and friends.

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She/Her/Hers

What's your favorite thing about CPP and why? 

CPP has a unique charm thanks both to the dedicated individuals who work here and to the students who study within its community.

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to yourself? 

All the hard work you invest in earning your degree will pay off in the end.

What's your favorite food and why? 

Chilaquiles are my favorite! This is a dish I do not get tired of. Luckily, they're a staple in my family's kitchen, so we make them regularly.

Pronouns

He/Him/El

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

If you could go back in time to when you were an undergrad, what's one piece of advice you'd give to yourself? 

If I could go back in time I would tell my undergrad self that having grace for yourself is acceptable. You do not need to have it all figured by the time you graduate. As a first-generation college student I was always shy, but stepping out of my comfort zone allowed me to seek for help and ask all the questions I needed to be successful in college. Never be afraid and step into the unknown because that unknown can take you to places you've never imagined.

What's your favorite animal and why? 

My favorite animal is a llama. There are super fluffy and cute! I hope to  visit the Llama Farm in Santa Barbara one day. I also love dogs. Dogs are very smart and it sure is true that they are 'man's best friend!'

Pronouns

She/Her/Ella

Why did you decide to become an academic advisor? 

I decided to become an academic advisor because I am passionate about helping others: what better way than guiding and contributing to student success and supporting their development to meet their goals? 

What’s one place on your travel bucket list and why do you want to go there? 

Hawaii, because the beaches there are so beautiful, and I want to eventually run a half marathon or full marathon on one of the islands.

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers