Q&A with Academic Success Coach Brianna Griego

Brianna Griego

Brianna Griego is a student in Fresno State’s master’s program for student affairs and college counseling. She earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology at Fresno State in 2023, after transferring from Oxnard College in southern California. She has worked in the Learning Center’s Academic Success Coaching program for two semesters. 

Are you the first in your family to go to college?
I am the first in my family to obtain a high school diploma, an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, and now a master’s degree.

Are you originally from Fresno? How did you end up at Fresno State?
I am originally from Oxnard, California. I ended up at Fresno State because a friend suggested it. She recommended considering a school that was not only more affordable but also farther from home, as a way to explore new opportunities, grow, and take a risk.

What is something you enjoy about your job?
One aspect I particularly enjoy is the work environment. Not only do we support students, but we also support each other as staff. This internship has helped me develop my skills and has prepared me in many areas where I previously struggled.

What does your job entail?
We provide support to students of all grade levels, with a majority being students on probation. We offer “Back on Track” presentations that outline how to achieve good academic standing, followed by one-on-one discussions to develop an academic support plan. Additionally, we schedule two more appointments, spaced three weeks apart, to monitor progress and provide extra support if needed. Students are always welcome to continue with appointments after completing these three.

We also conduct outreach to students who have been referred to our office, encouraging them to seek additional information about campus resources and support. We welcome all students, whether they are on academic probation or not, to learn more about what Fresno State has to offer and to receive further assistance.

In addition to these services, we conduct workshops and classroom presentations, providing strategies and tools to help students succeed. As academic coaches, we listen to students, offer guidance, resources, and strategies, and remain a supportive resource that students can return to whenever needed. Our office is open to all students seeking support and assistance.

What are you looking forward to this semester at the Learning Center?
I am looking forward to continuing to support students during my last two semesters. It’s a bittersweet feeling, as I wish I had started with Academic Success Coaching sooner. The environment and team are amazing. Working with students has taught me so much, and I see myself in many of them, as I once felt alone and confused when navigating the college system. If I could continue working here, I would, because I love what ASC stands for and the improvements we see each semester.

Brianna and her mom

What are your career goals/aspirations?
I aspire to work in student affairs because I want to continue supporting and encouraging students. Being a first-generation student is challenging, and it’s important to know that it’s okay to ask for help and have someone alongside you throughout the journey.

Is there anything else that you’d like to share?
My number one motivation is my family, especially my mom. Whenever I think of her, I am filled with a tremendous amount of emotions. She has never once doubted my ability to achieve more. I hope to one day to give back to her and my family. She migrated to the United States at a young age and, despite never having the opportunities and support that I have, she has always provided love and encouragement for my siblings and me. I wonder if my mom had the chance to follow her own dreams and aspirations, she would have realized that she was always capable.

by MARISA MATA

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