What is your "why"?

Hey! I'm Amanda Allen, the director of student success. My "why" is deep-seated with my family of educators and being raised with an understanding of the importance and value of education in any form. As a counselor, I've experienced how one positive relationship can profoundly impact the course of an individual's life. I see this daily in the relationships that our student success coaches build with their students. I believe it's a privilege to lead our coaches in a common purpose of empowering students to achieve their goals by recognizing and using their strengths.

What is your style and philosophy?

My philosophy, based on my counselor background, is to understand experiences and concerns to empower students to become self-aware and learn insight into their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I seek to advocate for each student and support the development of his or her strengths and skills. I believe everyone has the ability to learn, change and grow in order to experience more purposeful, healthier and happier lives. I also hope to foster a safe, welcoming environment for learning where our students and staff can thrive.

Education

• M.Ed., Clinical Mental Health Counseling, North Carolina State University
• BA, Criminology, N.C. State University

Favorites

• Movies/shows: "Psych" is my favorite show. You know that's right.
• Books/authors: I'm an avid reader. While I enjoy reading almost any genre, thrillers are my favorite. I'm always up for a good book recommendation.

What is your "why"?

Hello there! My name is Alan, and I became a student success coach because I genuinely love working with students, helping them figure out their own "why" and working together to pave their way forward. One of my favorite things is that moment when I'm working with a student and they have that "aha" regarding a problem that we've been working through, when all the pieces finally come together, and the student has a sense of clarity. It is one of the most rewarding things.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

My goal is to work with you as a partner. As such, I prefer to get to know you as a person in order to best support you as a student. I believe in getting to the reasons for what you do and what you're interested in so that you can better understand yourself and take educated action steps that will lead you to growth and your goals. Inevitably, you will feel lost at some point as a college student, so I want to work with you to make sure that you can find your way.

Education

• M.Ed., College Student Affairs Administration, University of West Florida
• BA, Graphic Design, University of West Florida

Favorites

• Movies/shows: I previously wanted to work as an animator, so I have a real appreciation for animated works and the stories that can be told through the medium. But my favorite actual genre is mystery-thriller.
• Hobbies/interests: I like to spend my time drawing. I'm one of those people who visit museums and zoos with a sketchbook in hand. I also enjoy working on model kits from time to time.

What is your "why"?

One of the many reasons why I enjoy my role as student success coach is because I can relate to many students and their educational journeys. I started off at a community college, where I secured a work-study position to help fund my education. I changed my major twice before transferring to a four-year institution. I learned firsthand that, with proper support, hard work and determination, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, you can reach your goals.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

I am a fan of the "appreciative advising" model. Disarm is my favorite phase and, in my opinion, the most important. My goal is to serve students with excellence. This includes creating an environment where students feel comfortable, valued and empowered.

Education

• BS, Communication, SUNY Brockport

Favorites

• Music/musicians: I enjoy all genres of music, especially smooth jazz.
• Food: I have a sweet tooth. Anything from Wegman's bakery will do!
• Hobbies/interests: I enjoy swimming and Zumba!

What is your "why"?

Hello! I'm Bri, and I've always been passionate about helping others and advocating for those around me. I love getting to know students, helping them discover their strengths and connecting them with the support they need to achieve their goals. I believe education should be accessible, and I never want a student to feel like they have to navigate their academic journey alone. Having forged my own career path, I understand how valuable encouragement, guidance and the right resources can be. My goal is to help students feel supported, empowered and confident as they pursue their academic and career goals.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

I'd describe my coaching style as student-centered, encouraging and accountable. I believe in meeting students where they're at, while also encouraging them to grow beyond what they think they're capable of. I like to create a welcoming environment where students feel seen and supported and are comfortable being their authentic selves. Ultimately, I believe students are most successful when they know someone is rooting for them, they feel like they belong, and they have the confidence to take the next step.

Education

• BS, Speech-Language Pathology (minor in Human Development and Family Studies), University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Favorites

• Music/musicians: I listen to everything! But some favorites are Erykah Badu, Stevie Wonder, Smino, Sasha Keable and Moonchild.
• Hobbies/interests: I love going to concerts and music in general, reading thriller novels and audiobooks, playing video games, learning new things and spending way too much time at the movie theater, thanks to my AMC A-List membership.

What is your "why"?

Hello! I'm Sarah Dominguez, and I'm a student success coach. My "why" is that I find it fulfilling when I can play a role, no matter how small, in students' journeys toward success. I love connecting with students from various backgrounds, witnessing their growth, resilience and achievements firsthand. I also greatly value being able to contribute to a more equitable society through my work in education. I believe education is powerful and transforms lives. I am so excited to be able to work with you as your success coach!

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

My coaching style is strengths-based, focusing on recognizing and developing each student's unique talents to boost confidence and motivation. I support students holistically, addressing their academic, emotional and social needs to promote overall well-being and success. I achieve this through resource connection, active listening, goal-setting and planning. By integrating these strategies, I aim to foster a positive and empowering environment that enhances academic performance and personal growth.

Education

• M.Ed., Educational Studies, Johns Hopkins University
• BA, History, North Carolina State University

Favorites

• Food: I am a foodie and love food from all over the world. Pizza and tacos are my favorites, though.
• Hobbies/interests: I love spending time reading, running or baking! I also love traveling around the world and visiting national parks.

What is your "why"?

Hi, my name is Michael Eure, and there are many reasons why serving as a student success coach provides rewarding experiences for me. I have observed great personal transformations among those on the college journey and witnessed all types of students excel academically, culturally and professionally, including many from non-traditional (adult learner), underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

My style is to function as an open communicator. I have an associate in applied science degree and often can relate with some of the issues that students may be experiencing. I strive to carefully listen to what individuals are expressing during our meetings and other interactions.  After initial discussions, it is an enjoyable process to collaboratively develop individualized student success plans, including establishing goals and strategies, coupled with connecting individuals to strategically beneficial resources inside and outside of the college. I believe in "tapping into the power within" and actively encouraging students to participate in experiential learning, volunteering and leadership immersion opportunities.

Education

• BS, Computer Information Systems, Saint Augustine's University

Favorites

• Music/musicians: I like all types of music. "Ngiculela-Es Una Historia (I am Singing)" by Stevie Wonder is one of my favorites.
• Food: Seafood is my favorite. I also like a variety of international foods, including Jamaican, South American and Mediterranean dishes. If there is something interesting offered at food scenes, such as the International Festival, I might be interested in sampling.
• Hobbies/interests: I love history and culture and serve on several advisory boards, and it is exciting to incorporate students during the implementation of events. There are many connections between historical stories and current student experiences. For example, Congress enacted the First (1862) and Second (1890) Morrill Acts, which established land-grant colleges focusing on agriculture, mechanic arts (engineering) and military science. The technical and community colleges currently enroll students into many skilled trades (mechanic arts) programs that originated at the land-grant colleges.

What is your "why"?

I became a student success coach because I believe no student should have to navigate their college journey alone. I want to help students bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be. Having supported diverse academic, personal and social needs throughout my career, I know how impactful a strong support system can be. I am here at Wake Tech to build partnerships with students to ensure that they have the tools and confidence to persist and succeed. Your success is my ultimate "why."

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

As a coach with a counseling background, my approach is to understand you as a whole person – your unique motivations, challenges and life experiences. My philosophy is to simply be in your corner, listen without judgment and support your direction. Together, we will work through the obstacles and build tools you need to confidently navigate your college journey.

Education

• MS, Counselor Education, SUNY Oneonta
• BA, Psychology, SUNY Oneonta

Favorites

• Music/musicians: I love listening to all kinds of music, but my favorite musician is Brian Adams.
• Hobbies/interests: I love watching most sports, traveling and weekend trips to the mountains.

What is your "why"?

Hello there! I am Davyous Melvin, and I am a first-generation college student. My "why" for being in this position is my love for helping others chase and accomplish their dreams and aspirations! I believe that students can achieve fantastic things and sometimes just need a bit of guidance, resources and specifics to accomplish their life goals. Through my experiences in various roles within my undergraduate university, I have recognized the importance of being a supportive character in a student's story, offering guidance and encouragement when needed.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

My coaching style revolves around taking a step-by-step approach. Some tasks can initially feel overwhelming when we look at the big picture, which can sometimes prevent us from even attempting the task. My philosophy is to encourage students to break things down into manageable steps, fostering progress and maintaining an environment that isn't overwhelming for the individual.

Education

• M.Ed., Higher Education specialization, University of North Carolina at Wilmington
• BFA, Music Theater, William Peace University

Favorites

• Hobbies/interests: I love listening to music and discovering new sub-genres. Additionally, I've been a gamer since childhood. I like designing sound and creating music that I could see fit in a video game.
• Music/musicians: I honestly like a bit of everybody. I jump between eras often as well.

What is your "why"?

Greetings! I'm Ashley D. Wheeler, and I'm thrilled to be a student success coach. My journey in education began years ago when I witnessed the first student I recruited graduate and proudly stride across the stage to receive a diploma. That moment ignited my passion for education, as I realized that I had discovered my "why." Every day, knowing that I have a hand in shaping someone's future fuels my dedication to this work. What brings me the greatest joy is staying in touch with my students as they continue their journeys and hearing about all the remarkable achievements they accomplish!

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

As a first-generation college graduate, I've gained a unique perspective on the challenges students face when navigating their education journey, especially without the guidance of someone familiar with the process. My philosophy is to become that support for students, offering advice and direction to help them continue toward their goals.

This means my coaching style is one of understanding the person first – what motivates them and what challenges them. Then, as we navigate through this process, my goal is to teach them how to be their own navigator and to empower them to confidently move forward through their educational and personal lives.

Education

• MS, Management and Leadership, Western Governors University (in progress)
• BA, Communication – Electronic Media/Journalism and PR, Concord University

Favorites

• Movies/shows: "NCIS" is my favorite show (Team McGee), "Back to the Future" is my go-to film, and anything with Tom Hiddleston will always be at the top of my list!
• Hobbies/interests: I have always loved traveling and finding places that only "the locals" know about. I get a thrill out of understanding how movies and TV are made, so I adore sitting down and watching a good behind-the-scenes documentary. Finally, as a former cast member, Disney and spending time there will always have a special place in my heart.

What is your "why"?

Hi, my name is Erica. As a first-generation college student who embarked on my educational journey here at Wake Tech, I discovered a passion for guiding and supporting fellow students in their pursuit of academic excellence and personal growth. My own experiences have shaped my commitment to helping college students successfully transition into higher education, empowering them to achieve both their short-term and long-term goals.

What is your coaching style and philosophy?

My coaching style is strengths-based-focused and having a growth mindset. My mission is to help students identify their strengths in the classroom, overcome adversity and thrive in their college journey.

Education

• MSW, University of North Carolina at Wilmington
• BSW, UNC-Wilmington

Favorites

• Food: Some of my favorite foods are Italian and Mexican.
• Hobbies/interests: Some of my favorite hobbies are spending time with my family and friends, going to the beach and checking out what's new in the theater.