Testimonials

Benny Telles-Sotomayor

M.A. 2023

As I reflect on my experience in the school psychology program at Cal Poly Humboldt, I am filled with a genuine appreciation and the utmost respect for the program faculty and, in particular, to Dr. DeMatteo and Lisa Miller for their patience, understanding, and compassion as I troubleshot my way through the program. I recall many moments where the demands of the program seemed insurmountable and it appeared easiest to walk away. With the personal help and emotional support of the program faculty, I learned to 'lean into the discomfort,' break past my self-imposed limitations, and grow toward becoming a competent school psychology professional. Thank you! Go Lumberjacks!

Male presenting person in graduation regalia being hooded by their advisor.

Vivian Alvarado

Undergraduate Student '16

Hello, my name is Vivian Alvarado and the most important thing I did during my college journey was find my passion, Psychology and Nutrition. Whether it be statistics, public speaking, art, research, counseling, teaching…it is important to know that everyone has their own strengths that are unique to them and the only person you have to compete with is yourself. To become wiser it is essential to listen and help one another. My advice to finding passion would be to challenge yourself by bringing your personal experiences, background and social circle into the classroom. Best wishes to you all! Currently working as a Behavioral Therapist here in Arcata, CA.

Vivian Alvarado

Tamera Stapp

Class of 2017
I gained so much from being a psychology major at Humboldt. When you are a psychology major you become part of a community of scholars. I was able to make connections with faculty and students, learn valuable skills, and have a basis of knowledge that ultimately helped me land a job.
Tamera Stapp

Kashia Axthelm

Academic Research masters program alumni

As a transfer student, I was worried about being able to make connections with my professors in such a short amount of time; however, I found the psychology faculty at Humboldt to be very welcoming and approachable. I was able to get involved in research as an undergraduate and continued working on those projects during my MA degree. I'm about to start a PhD program, and my course work and research experience at Humboldt definitely prepared me for this next step in my career. I will forever be thankful for the guidance and mentor-ship I received from the amazing psychology professors and staff at Humboldt! Thank you!

Kashia Axthelm

Jack Allen

Grad Student
“Working with the faculty and staff of the Humboldt Psychology Department was the highlight of my undergraduate education. It was encouraging to be able to form a connection with a diverse group of professors. They have great stories and advice to share about our community. There were a lot of opportunities to work with faculty members conducting research, which made me feel confident with my graduate school applications.”
jack allen

Haley Jones

School Psychology masters program alumni

I already knew when I entered Humboldt for my undergraduate degree in psychology that I would pursue a graduate degree in School Psychology. I chose to apply to the program at Humboldt, because as someone who grew up in Humboldt County, it was important for me to stay close to home where I had support from friends and family. I didn’t know when I started the program that I would soon have a newfound group assisting me to realize my goal. I was amazed and honored by the support I received from the faculty and staff in the School Psychology graduate program. Not only did I have wonderful professors who supported my journey - I was placed at school sites where I experienced hands-on practical learning and professional development opportunities. I made school-site connections with teachers, administrators, other school personnel, students and their families. After a successful internship at Humboldt County Office of Education, I was subsequently hired full time as a school psychologist working with diverse populations, and am engaged in an exciting school transformation initiative with the Northern California MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) Coalition, providing training and consultation to local school districts focusing on Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), restorative practices, academic interventions, inclusion, and other critical initiatives supported at the local and state level. I am grateful to be engaged in this exciting and enriching work.

haley jones

Brandon Cameron-Vaughn

Psychiatric Assistant

"The biggest preparation for both graduation and becoming a psychiatric assistant was my Cal Poly Humboldt experience. Professors sharing knowledge on topics was helpful, but to see the same professors continue to work hard to further their knowledge was inspirational. My time spent at Humboldt state has taught me that anything is possible through hard work and perseverance."

Brandon Cameron-Vaughn

Arlyn Hernandez

Class of 2016

"I struggled a little because I would hear that I was not going to get a job that I wanted because I had no experience but the best advice I can give is to continue doing what you do and don't doubt yourself; you've done it this far why doubt now what you're capable of doing. Don't let others define who you are and what you can and can't do."

Arlyn Hernandez