ABOUT US

OUR MISSION STATEMENT
The primary goals of the CoS Student Success Center are to enhance the educational experience, facilitate graduation for all students in the Sciences, help students follow a clear and deliberate path toward their individual academic goals and professional aspirations. We work toward these goals aiming to improve access to information, resources, academic advising, and to provide structure and support to our department advisors.

COS SSC STRUCTURE
Our Student Success Center supplements our faculty department advisors in the College of Sciences. In our center we have a team consisting of professional Academic Advisors, as well as Peer Mentors that are able to assist students with a variety of advising questions.
Meet Our Professional Staff
Here at the CoS Student Success Center, we offer professional and peer mentor academic advising to supplement your Department Advisors. We also offer a variety of specialty advising, and STEM related programs. Come visit us and see what we have to offer.

ROSALYNN AYALA
Assistant Director - CoS Student Success Center, M.A. College Counseling and Student Development
As an academic advisor, I take a student centered approach to support students in their journey towards their academic and professional goals. I am a student advocate and I am committed to partnering with students to access resources and take ownership of their academic plan. Please stop by and visit us!

KAYLYN TALIA
Academic Advisor - CoS Student Success Center, M.A. College Counseling and Student Development
As a Higher Education Professional, I am dedicated to guiding students on their academic journey to help them realize their full potential and achieve their career aspirations. It is my role to provide each student with the tools they need to be successful which includes having meaningful conversations and asking open ended questions. I aim to holistically advise students and strive to ensure that each student I meet with feels welcomed, valued, and heard when meeting with me. I look forward to helping you!

ANA RIGHELLIS
Academic Advisor - CoS Student Success Center, M.A. in Education, Counseling
Office Hours: By Appointment
Make an Appointment via EAB Navigate
As a seasoned Academic Advisor and proud SDSU double alum, I am passionate about education and empowering students to succeed. With extensive advising experience, I take a proactive, student-centered approach personalized to your needs. I strive to earn your trust, provide guidance, and help you set goals for your academic success.

HEATHER STARK
Academic Advisor - Computer Science, M.A. Educational Technology
hstark@sdsu.edu | Make an Appointment via EAB Navigate or Visit Major Advisor page for Current Drop-In hours

AMY TAPPEN
Academic Advisor - Biology, M.A. College Counseling and Student Development
Make an Appointment via EAB Navigate or Visit Major Advisor page for Current Drop-In hours

TIFFANY RUIZ
Academic Advisor - Biology, M.A. in Education, Counseling
Make an Appointment via EAB Navigate or Visit Major Advisor page for Current Drop-In hours

DR. ESTRALITA MARTIN
Assistant Dean for Student Affairs - College of Sciences & Director of CASA
Make an Appointment via EAB Navigate or contact Sam Westover: swestover@sdsu.edu
As an academic advisor, my role is to provide answers, solve problems, but most importantly, assist students in acquiring the tools they need to succeed. I am committed to student success and thrive when I’m helping others. I’m a Star Wars and Disney fan and enjoy hanging out with my family and friends during my leisure time. I’m looking forward to meeting you during office hours!
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
– Maya Angelou
Email: esmartin@sdsu.edu | Office Phone: 619-594-1204
Assists students with all non-academic issues that may affect their academics.
Our Staff & Peer Mentors Can Help You With:
- Locating resources to help you begin to plan your career – We’ll let you know about workshops and career panels, handouts and reading material, websites, and help put you in contact with the right people and opportunities.
- Learning about internships and research – We can show you information about how to land internships and field experience and where those opportunities are.
- Addressing any difficulties you might have in classes by serving as your champion and liaison between you and faculty, depart chairs or advisers, or other campus entities.
- Locating campus resources to help you get involved at SDSU.
- Exploring minors or managing difficult decisions about changing majors.
- Study abroad opportunities.
- Keeping you informed about all the opportunities that the College of Sciences has to offer.
Connect with Our Academic Advisors
Are you ready to enhance your academic journey? Reach out to our dedicated team of advisors at the Sciences Student Success Center. Whether you need guidance on course selection or want to explore the diverse services we offer, we’re here to support your success at San Diego State University. Don’t hesitate to take the first step towards achieving your academic goals.