LAC: Rio Hondo wants to know more about you, Ilse! What are you future academic goals?

Ilse: I never want to stop learning, once I complete a degree I will probably go back to school for another one. Sociology is definitely a subject that I have the best time learning. I would love a degree in Women’s Studies. History is also very interesting to me, but I never was able to learn my people’s history growing up, therefore I am really interested in learning more about my culture, and the dialects as well. I also really like writing, perhaps I will go back and major in creative writing.

LAC: How has your experience as a tutor in the LAC affected your educational goals?

Ilse: Working with all these great students motivates me to accomplish my educational goals; there are so many students, all working towards a goal and major, and its inspiring to see that as a whole we all are working towards something for ourselves, or our family, and if we can help each other on that path then life is good.

LAC: What do you like best about tutoring in the LAC?

Ilse: Helping others is probably the best part of this job. Seeing a student leave this room feeling more confident and much more stress free makes it all worth it. Also, having the ability to share the knowledge that I have learned with others who are having more trouble with it.

LAC: What are some study techniques that have helped you become a better student?

Ilse: Never procrastinate! Balance, find a place that works for you and a method; personally, I really advise students to make notecards. They helped me ace most of my classes and they can be fun to make when using different colors.

LAC: What is some advice you can give new college students?

Ilse: Use the resources available to you! Get knowledgeable about the campus, and the major of your choice. There are many resources available to new students. There is the First Year success center, free meetings with counselors who can discuss different majors and future education plans, transfer centers, and many clubs available for all students.

LAC: Finish this sentence: When people first meet me, they think I’m ____, but I really am ____.

Ilse: When people first meet me, they think I’m shy, but I really am talkative.