Kasandra Colwell

Learning Specialist

I grew up in Lake County, spending most of my upbringing in the Kelseyville and Clearlake areas.

I graduated from Cal Poly Humboldt in Spring 2022 with a Bachelors in Communication and a minor in English Writing.

Something that I think makes Cal Poly Humboldt so special is the kind of quality support and mentorship that it provides. During my time as a student at Cal Poly Humboldt, I had so many people across the university rooting for me and my success, as well as providing me the information and tools I needed to achieve that success. I leaned into this support and mentorship wholeheartedly, and that decision fostered a sense of community, instilled an awareness of agency within me, and helped me believe in myself.  

I hope to continue the theme of quality support and mentorship as a Learning Specialist for EOP/SSS students. I’m happy to be a supportive person for each EOP/SSS student I work with as they embark on their academic journeys, providing the information and tools they will need to succeed, all while highlighting their strengths. I want the students I work with to embrace the possibilities of the college experience, envision what they want their college story to include, know they deserve to make their dreams a reality, and know I’m on their team to make that happen!

I utilized a program similar to EOP/SSS during my time at College of the Redwoods, it was called EOP&S there. My advisor there was a resource for me that was more valuable than words could say. I wish I had been an EOP student during my time at Cal Poly Humboldt, because I could tell that EOP had a lot to offer that could have helped me have a broader idea of what is available for me as a low-income student.

My advice for current and incoming EOP/SSS students is to keep calm and believe in yourself, remember that good things can happen, have a plan, and remember you are not alone! You deserve to reach for your dreams and we are here to help!

One fun fact about me is that I like to sing, though I’ve never been professionally trained. I enjoy karaoke nights but am more nervous about singing in front of smaller audiences, maybe with time and practice I’ll be less shy about sharing my singing!

I grew up on Classic Rock music, and still love it today. My taste in music varies widely, but I will adore Joan Jett forever because I find inspiration in her journey for various reasons, including that she taught herself how to play guitar, she formed two bands, and she has her own spot in the Rock and Roll hall of fame. Something I like to do in Humboldt is take walks in Sequoia Park to appreciate the scenery and admire the animals that live there.