Assistant Director
Ariana received her B.A. in Women’s Studies from LMU in 2008, and her M.A. in Higher Education Administration from the university in 2022. In addition to counseling students in career planning and job search strategies, she is the office's DEI specialist. Prior to joining the CDO in February 2023, Ariana was a hiring manager on customer engagement teams at tech startups and has extensive experience evaluating application materials.
Spotlight Q & A
Where is your hometown?
I was born in Chicago, but I grew up in Brooklyn, NY.
What do you enjoy most about working at LLS CDO?
I got into higher education to work with students. Although I’ve only been here a short while, it has been my favorite part of the job. Seeing students succeed, helping them plan and strategize, and watching their goals come to life is truly fulfilling.
What was your life like before coming to LLS?
I worked in the tech start-up space, which was really fun! It was exciting to be part of a company in its early stages, watch it grow from the ground up, and know that my work contributed to that growth. The perks weren’t bad either.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to focus on building skills.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love spending time with my family, taking impromptu day trips, and traveling. I also enjoy watching historical period dramas like Downton Abbey, The Gilded Age, and Poldark.
What’s your favorite cuisine?
I love Dominican, Puerto Rican, and Mexican food.
What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
As a kid, I dreamed of becoming an archaeologist. I’ve always loved history, and the idea of uncovering and holding something ancient fascinated me. Although I didn’t pursue archaeology as a career, joining a dig remains on my bucket list, and I still hope to experience one someday.
List a few of your favorite books.
Some of my recent favorite books include The Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah, Pope Joan by Donna Woolfolk Cross, and In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez. I also enjoy Agatha Christie mysteries (especially those featuring Hercule Poirot), and Freida McFadden’s psychological thrillers. During my post-undergraduate days, I survived on books by Paulo Coelho.
Ask Me About:
Diversity Internships, Fellowships & Scholarships
Crafting Effective Diversity Personal Statements
Interview Techniques and Mock Interviews