"Being a college adviser taught me the importance of grassroots efforts to promote college access and the necessity of partnering with the community to be effective. I have used my passion for access and community partnerships in each position I have had in higher education. Currently, being an assistant dean for student affairs and inclusive excellence requires me to partner with individuals from diverse communities and populations, with the goal of supporting the recruitment and retention of students from all backgrounds. My time in the Advising Corps helped me to develop my passion for student success, inclusion and equitable practices within higher education. I am proud to be a former college adviser because I remember the importance of my relationships with administrators, teachers, and parents to cultivate a community of support around students as they developed into productive citizens and future leaders."