Empowering Dreams: A Day in the Life of Zeny Wheat, Online Admissions Advisor

Helping students make informed, important decisions—such as enrolling in college—means taking the time to listen, answer questions, and help them stay on the course to their goal. Zeny Wheat, Online Admissions Advisor for San Joaquin Valley College, is a natural at her job because she cares so much about the students she serves.

Danielle Johnson, Engagement Coordinator for San Joaquin Valley College, is Zeny’s former coworker; she nominated her story for a spotlight. “Zeny stands out because she gives 110% to everything she does,” Danielle says. “She is always on top of her game, bringing in so many new enrollments. She’s easygoing, easy to talk to, caring, and sweet. She is also hard-working and organized.”

Here, Zeny shares more about her job, and offers words of encouragement for those just beginning their college and career journey.

How long have you been working at San Joaquin Valley College? What did you do before your current position?

I’ve been working at San Joaquin Valley College for one year; prior to this position, I was an admissions advisor for nine years in the same industry. I always knew that I belonged in education, just didn’t realize it was admissions until I started ten years ago.

What is a typical day like for you?

A typical day in the admissions office is extremely busy with continuous calls, emails, and texting. On the phone, we are giving information about the program and requirements. I like to take my time talking and getting to know each student, learning what they are looking for in a school, and finding out how I can help them get started with furthering their education.

What is your favorite part about your job? What is the most challenging part? 

My favorite part is helping change lives. The most challenging part for me is when I’m not able to help a student with what they need outside of school to be successful in continuing their education. It’s heartbreaking every time this happens, just because I can see how important education is to them. Part of our job in Admissions is to help walk students through everything with planning, scheduling, coordinating, and sending reminders; having patience is key.

We help students manage their time so that they can complete all that’s needed to begin school. Once they start school, adjusting their daily schedule to make it work can be an adjustment, even if it was well thought through and planned. When it comes time to make those changes, it can feel overwhelming for many students. I check in with them for the first five weeks to encourage them to stay positive, and if they start to question their decision to be there, I remind them of their, “Why”—their own personal reasons for enrolling.

Do you have any words of advice or encouragement for students who are just starting out at SJVC, or for those who are thinking about taking the next big step to enroll?

My advice for students starting their program at San Joaquin Valley College would be this: don’t ever be afraid to ask for help or to ask questions. There is never a stupid question!

For those who are thinking of taking the next big step, I would say: Don’t be afraid of change. Change is good, invest in yourself! You are worth it—and your future is worth it!