Elizabeth Cipres
Dean, Counseling Services
Irvine Valley College
Irvine, CA USA
“Your work ethic will speak for itself and others will help you along the way. Be open to mentors and seek professionals in your selected field.”
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
I got into the EOPS program at my community college and I made friends.
An EOPS peer counselor told me I had enough units to transfer and she helped me with my CSUF application.
At CSU Fullerton, I got a part-time job doing student outreach. I became very familiar with the campus and support services.
Upon graduation from CSUF, I was hired as a full-time outreach specialist. This was my first full-time job with benefits and I got my first business card.
I got my first community college position as a Transfer Center Director at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut, CA.
I decided to pursue a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership at the University of La Verne.
Applied, interviewed, and accepted my first dean position at Monterey Peninsula College on the Central Coast.
Accepted my third dean position at Irvine Valley College and I made my way back to Orange County. I was a dean in three community college districts and I increased my earning potential each time.
Education
High School
Westminster High School
Westminster High School
Graduate
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services
California State University, Fullerton
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services
California State University, Fullerton
Career
Dean, Counseling Services
I supervise all counselors, do student conduct and Title IX investigations.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Law
Helping People
Day to Day
Every day is different, from program development to progressive discipline. The days are long but are also very rewarding, especially when someone takes the time to let you know that you made a difference to them.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for college students
I recommend that you get a job in the industry and always do above and beyond your supervisor's expectations. Your work ethic will speak for itself and others will help you along the way. Be open to mentors and seek professionals in your selected field.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Friends:
"Counselors do not make much money."
Challenges I Overcame
First-Generation College Student
