Cynthia Diaz

cpaz@calpoly.edu

Hello everyone! My name is Cynthia Paz, I was born and raised in Guadalupe, CA.  I began my higher education at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria where I received a degree in Liberal Arts.  I then transferred to Cal State Northridge and received a degree in Child & Adolescent Development.  After working with preschool age children I quickly realized I wanted to work with older students.  I attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo where I earned a Master’s of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Counseling and Guidance: Higher Education & Student Affairs. My career goal was to become an Academic Counselor and serve underrepresented students in the Central Coast area. I began my work at Allan Hancock College, working for various departments as an Academic Counselor for over three years. It is one of my greatest accomplishment to be able to work for EOP and this population of students. I love working with students and being part of their educational experience.

When I am not at work I enjoy wine tasting and spending time with my family. I have identical twin boys that are my world. They keep me on my toes and inspire me to be the best person that I can be.

I can’t wait to meet you all!

Drexler Alcantara

dralcant@calpoly.edu

Hello EOP Family! My name is Drexler Alcantara. I was born and raised in Porterville, CA. My college journey began at Porterville College where I earned my associate’s degree in Administration of Justice, then transferred to Chico State where I earned my bachelor's degree in Social Science. I then went on to graduate school where I earned my master’s degree in Educational Counseling at Cal State, Bakersfield. I have had career changes and worked several jobs throughout my life. From working at local grocery stores, restaurant businesses, elementary and middle schools, maintenance, retail, and now higher education.  

From my lived experiences I have learned that it takes grit, resiliency, discipline, and a growth mindset to respond to and overcome adversity. Most importantly, I have learned that it takes a support system who genuinely cares about you to help find YOUR purpose and achieve YOUR goals. I am humbled to serve as your EOP Counselor. It is my social responsibility to equip you with the necessary tools, resources, and connections for you to not only be successful at Cal Poly, but to also prepare you for this ever-changing society. Rest assured that I always be in your corner cheering you on in whatever YOU choose to do in life! 

Moreover, when I am not in the office, I enjoy working out, spending quality time with family and friends, going on road trips, playing sports, and exploring the central coast! 

I look forward to connecting with you all! 

#EOPFamily 

rruiz39@calpoly.edu

I am a first generation transfer student who grew up in Venice, worked in community recreation in Santa Monica and advocated for students in underrepresented high schools in the Los Angeles Harbor schools, Compton, Norwalk and Long Beach. Even as I assisted students in the Santa Monica Malibu districts, I have learned that student has hope and that is my goal as your EOP counselor ~ to help you in the completion of your degree and to prepare you to the world beyond Cal Poly as well help you realize your full potential as a leader.

Denis Gonzalez Reyes

Ayyy heyyy! I am Denis Gonzalez-Reyes and I'm currently a sophomore studying Aerospace Engineering. I first wanted to be a pilot but after flying a couple times, I realized I am more interested in a career that builds the planes themselves! Some fun facts about me are that I am one of the founders of the new Puente @ Cal Poly club on campus, I don't know how to swim, and I ADORE gnomes. Anyways, enough about me, I am just so excited to meet you all in SI 2024 and guide you through the anxious but exciting transition into university level learning!

Aamori Waller

Hi! My name is Aamori and I’m so excited to be a part of Summer Institute this year! I’m going into my second year as an environmental engineering major and I’m from the Central Valley. I really enjoy singing and I always get aux. I also love to be creative and experimental with my outfits such as up cycling thrifted clothes. Can’t wait to see y'all!

Arthur Quintero

Hey everyone! My name is Arthur Quintero, a second-year Electrical Engineering major from East Los Angeles. I like to spend my time with friends and listening to music. Some fun facts about me: I love nature, I hope to work for Tesla one day, and I'm a foodie. 

Melissa Chen

Heyyy everyone! I’m Melissa, an upcoming 3rd year majoring in Business Administration (Marketing) and a double minor in Law & Society and Political Science. I’m looking to go into Real Estate Law or Corporate Law (Mass Media Law). I’m originally from the Bay Area (San Francisco), but I live in Sonoma now, which is a lot like SLO, being a small town and in the countryside (aka Wine County). 
A few facts about myself:
•    I am a middle child of 5; I have 2 older sisters, 1 younger brother, and 1 younger sister
•    I am Dairy Sensitive.
•    I have never been out of the state or country.
•    I have 2 cousins who are technically my full siblings because they have the same DNA/genetics as me and my siblings (my parents’ siblings are married to each other)
•    I can speak Cantonese (not 100%, but can still understand and speak, just not read lol)
•    I get bruised easily (broken left arm, twisted ankles, right wrist, scraped/burned arms, etc.)
•    I’m a super picky eater.

I’m super excited to be your SI Leader this summer! 

Giovanni De La Luz

Hello World! My name is Giovanni De La Luz and I was born and raised in South Central LA. I am a rising junior studying Computer Science & Bioinformatics. One of my future goals is to be the first in my family to earn a doctorate degree. A few of my hobbies consist of listening to new music, playing video games, and hanging out with friends and family. Summer Institute on top!

Camden Li Tsou

Hello! My name is Camden Tsou, I am a second-year Public Health major on the pre-med track and am from West Covina. I am involved in choir and enjoy nature, hiking, and playing video games. I look forward to SI and getting to know all of you guys!

Jacqueline Nunez

Hi, my name is Jacqueline Nuñez! I'm from Palm Springs, and I'm a second-year animal science major on the pre-vet track. I love going to the movie theaters, eating popcorn, and drinking slushies. In my free time, I enjoy binge watching tv shows, baking, and listening to music.

Emmanuel Moreno

My name is Emmanuel Moreno, I am a second-year Aerospace Engineering major. I enjoy going to the gym and am always up for a great time! Some fun facts about me would be my passion for the guitar and anything that flies at hyper-sonic speeds.