Denise Poché

Name:

Denise Poché

Job Title:

College Adviser

Joined the L&S Office of Undergraduate Advising in:

June 1989

What is your approach to advising?

My approach to advising is listening, encouraging, advising, assisting students making decisions relating to their academic and career choices and helping them navigate their way through our system. With this knowledge and skill set, our students leave the university with a greater sense of independence as they move on to the next step in their journey ("Life after CAL").

Education:

BA, Dramatic Arts, University of California, Berkeley
MA, Counseling, Cal State East Bay

How did you get here?

My career in Higher Education began in the College of Engineering in 1973. After 7 years I decided to make a change and transferred to the CSU system where I worked with undergrad and graduate students. In my work with graduate students who were studying to be Counselors, School Psychologists and Special Education Teachers I experienced a turning point in my career.

I had the potential to be a good adviser & counselor, however I needed to develop this skill set by furthering my education. Although it was frightening to think about returning to school after such a long absence I made the decision to go for it. Returning to school as a re-entry, working student-parent was indeed a challenge, however, it was one of the best decisions of my life. I earned an M.S. in Counseling with an emphasis in Higher Education.

What's your favorite part of your job?

I enjoy working with students who are trying to find out who they are, how to set goals for themselves and develop a plan for how to reach these goals. I also enjoy working with transfer students, student parents, re entry students and especially with students experiencing academic difficulty. I continue to develop a greater understanding of the needs and special gifts our DSP students bring to our campus.

What's the best class you've ever taken?

"Student Development"

About me:

I consider myself an educator who nurtures learning, recognizes the importance of understanding student development and its impact on student success. I continue to learn from my students and appreciate the value of them being able to celebrate who they are in an environment where there is so much diversity.

"Every day at CAL is different and I am still loving it"

What advice do you have for L&S students in general?

Enjoy this new chapter that is beginning to enfold before your very eyes and remember we are there to assist you in your search for knowledge. Take advantage of the tutoring and the study groups at the Student Learning Center. When you are stretching yourself to learn new material, it makes sense to work with other people. Don't forget to take advantage of as many of the enrichment opportunities offered at CAL as you can. There is much to learn both inside and out of the classroom.

P.S. Remember, to have fun while you are here. These years can be some of the best times of your life.