Mission Statement
Our mission is to support first-year students in their discovery and pursuit of academic, career, and personal goals. To this end, the First-Year Success Program subscribes to an advising philosophy that provides proactive and individualized advising support that acknowledges students’ strengths and intersectional identities.
The First-Year Success Program can help you:
Connect with the campus community
Transition from high school to college
Academic advising, workshops, peer advising
Use your STAN Degree Progress
General Education & Major Requirements
Plan your second year & beyond
Meet the Advisors
Eilbret Younan
College of Education, Kinesiology & Social Work, and Psychology Major
My name is Eilbret Younan, and I grew up and lived in the central valley most of my life. I’m a Stan State alumni, earning my bachelor’s degree in Sociology and master’s degree in Education: School Counseling. I’ve been an Academic Advisor at Stan State since 2017, and prior to that I’ve worked at Merced College and Center for Human Services. My favorite hobbies include hiking, watching basketball, soccer, and traveling to new places.
Jesus Jimenez
College of Science
My name is Jesus Jimenez, and I grew up in Atwater, CA as a first-generation student. Both of my parents are from Mexico, and I do also speak Spanish. My major in college was Global and International Studies and I am working on my Master's in Counseling here at Stan State. I have been an Academic Advisor since 2007, first at UC Merced, then at San Jose State, and finally here at Stanislaus State. Some of my hobbies include playing guitar, reading, swimming, bike riding, and being active.
Tamika Gardley
College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
Hello! My name is Tamika Gardley. I am originally from Southern California. I have also lived in Las Vegas, Nevada, however I have resided in the Central Valley most of my life. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Stanford University and my Master of Science Degree in Counseling (School Psychology) along with a Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPS) from Sac State. I am currently a doctoral student in the EdD program in Educational Leadership at Stanislaus State. Prior to joining the advising team, I was a School Psychologist. I enjoy spending time with my husband, kids, and extended family as well as reading. I look forward to learning from you and partnering with you as you navigate your journey at Stanislaus State!
Sarah Cruz
College of Business Administration & Child Development Major
Hi! My name is Sarah Cruz and I am from Merced, CA. I am an alumnus of Stan State and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Studies with a TESOL concentration. I also have earned a Master of Science Degree in Academic Advising through Kansas State University. Prior to being an advisor in the ASC, I have served as a peer mentor in Athletics, substitute teacher, and Athletic Academic Advisor. Being an advisor allows me to get the best of both worlds of education and advocating for students. In my off time, I love to go fishing, take trips to Disneyland , and spend time with my family!
Updated: April 09, 2025