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Hello everyone! My name is Byron Obiaga and I am the incoming Co-ARD for SMSJ! I am incredibly excited to work with all of you this upcoming year. I was born in Nigeria and immigrated with my mother to the United States. Up until the age of 5, my family and I resided in Hawthorne, CA then moved to Carson, CA. I have pretty much lived in Southern California my whole life so Santa Barbara is new for me and a nice change of scenery.
I graduated from UCLA with a degree in Psychology. During my collegiate years, much of my work aligned with supporting students in various spaces, especially BIPOC students. I am very passionate about mental health and wellbeing which explains why I immersed myself in extracurriculars that delve into providing space for students to receive support and resources surrounding mental health concerns. In addition, I was an RA during my last two academic years and served as an ARD soon after graduation, but unfortunately COVID-19 had other plans and cut that experience short. I returned to the role because I found meaning in collaborating with students and helping them reach their personal and academic goals while nurturing their growth as leaders/future world changers. In my free time I enjoy dancing, playing volleyball, and connecting with my immediate family and chosen family (friends). I am a big fan of afrobeats music and just appreciate everything from the African diaspora but in general, I love cultural exchanges and discourse. I am trying to become an avid reader so please feel free to share your favorite books! |