From Student to Engagement Coordinator: Serenity Thulin’s Journey at SJVC

First impressions mean a lot, and as Engagement Coordinator for San Joaquin Valley College’s Porterville campus, Serenity Thulin makes certain that every would-be student who walks through her campus doors and every phone inquiry from someone considering career education there gets her full attention. She wants each of those visitors and callers to get the same responsiveness, consideration and support she got when she was in their career education-search shoes.

Serenity is excited for each of them to begin the journey she made not that long ago at that same campus when she was a student – now graduate – in the Business Office Administration program. At 26-years old, she packs a lot of wisdom into the story she shares to benefit others in their career and education decision-making process.

How did you begin your business career path?

In my early twenties I was taking classes here and there and had gotten certification for medical assisting. But, the work commute and scheduling in the medical field weren’t working for me. I knew I wanted to go back to school, but first I had to figure out what kind of career I was passionate about.

I did some online research and found SJVC’s Business Office Administration (BOA) program. I spoke with an Admissions Advisor, and they were very helpful in the process. I officially enrolled a couple of months later and completed the program in March (2024).

Was the Business Office Administration program good preparation for your current role at SJVC?

I learned about management and supervision of other people; what makes someone a perfect fit for their role. My program taught administration and clerical skills; I learned Microsoft Excel, certain payment software and how to conduct/keep track of payments; Inventory orders.

It all prepared me for interacting with current and new students as an Engagement Coordinator. Many (would-be students) are new to finding out about our campus and our programs and come in not knowing which program they want to do. My experience here as a student/graduate helps me understand what they’re going through.

What are your responsibilities as an Engagement Coordinator?

We are the first person someone sees when they walk through the college doors. We try to make them feel as comfortable as possible, while we gather information about their program interests for a profile form we give the Admissions Advisor they will see. Walk-ins, as well as appointments, are important and our Admissions Advisors will try to get a walk-in seen right away.

We go through a similar process for people who call us for SJVC and program information. We take a lot of their contact and program interest information and explain that they are in our system and an Admissions Advisor will be in contact with them soon.

Do you get to connect with SJVC students often in your ‘front desk/welcome’ role?

One of my first roles when I was hired at the Porterville campus was to help with my own graduation ceremony! I assisted in caps/gowns distribution, as well as helped create the Awards portion of the ceremony. (June 2024) It was an exciting and memorable experience.

I also help conduct New Student Orientations. We talk about what new students might expect – especially if they are parents or working. We offer tips for time management/balance. I tell new students to “get to know the person sitting next to you; it’s good to have an alliance/friendship with other students. Study groups, group chats, instructor communication – alliances/friendships – help. If you’re stuck, ask questions. But at the end of the day, you’re the only one who can make you succeed.”

You are the ‘first look’ a potential student has at SJVC. Feel the pressure?

I hope I can really make a positive impact on their first impression. I make sure I’m doing all I can to help them make a choice that is the right one for them. My contribution is to do my best to answer any basic questions they have at any time in the process.

Their Admissions Advisor goes over all the deeper information they need to make their decisions.

What is one of the highlights of your experiences at the college?

When someone enrolls in one of our programs, it’s a pretty happy and exciting moment. Often, family members are there for support through the process – and to see for themselves what SJVC is about. We have a big bell at the front office and when someone finalizes their enrollment, we celebrate by having them ring that bell. It’s a pretty happy and exciting moment and we’ve had family members take pictures of the bell-ringing. We all clap for the ‘new’ student and the next big chapter in their life.

I think back to ringing that bell and being that new student and feeling nervous because the unknown is always kind of spooky.

What excites you about your position at the college?

Being part of making an impact on our students and the campus. We get to make a difference in so many ways.  To see them at the end, when they see what their field of study has to offer them. They have that look of relief…and excitement. It’s a start to their new chapter in life.

Do you ever reconnect with those students?

After graduation they come back to work with our Career Services team. They’re excited to begin that next step and seeing that loop close from graduation to their new career. Their faces are sometimes shy, but excited.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about a new career direction and education?

Conduct your own research about a career you’re passionate about. Don’t do something just because of the money. What interests, excites you?