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Staff Q&A: Rebecca Serrano, Student Success and Financial Wellness Coordinator

What was your background before coming to the College of Health Sciences?

I graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Integrated Strategic Communication and then returned for the university’s 11-month MBA program. I liked business. I was pretty good at it, but I realized that I wanted to work with students. I knew I wanted to come back to UK. Working with students is what I love; it’s what I’m passionate about.

How did you move into serving students?

When I was in college, I helped several peers through the undergraduate process. I joke with my husband that he was my first advisee. His advisor was nonexistent, and I helped guide him through the college process.

How do you help students as the student success and financial wellness coordinator?

My main responsibility is to work with students on an individual basis and explain their financial resources here at the university. Whether it’s an emergency situation, or if they’ve just never had to use financial aid before, I’m here to answer their questions and guide students from a college perspective to connect them with any main campus resources that they might need.

But you still serve in advising role, correct?

Yes, I also work as a pre-professional advisor, providing advice to students who are pursuing professional degree programs. A typical day may just be me talking with students about their options or helping them to be competitive in the application process. Being a college student isn’t easy. I’m also here to offer peace of mind as students navigate their college journey.  It’s as simple as me sitting with them and saying, ‘Let’s take a deep breath. You’re doing all these great things; it’s going to be okay.’

Tell us about your KORU class. What should students know?

KORU is a four-week class I lead which encourages students to establish mindfulness practice as a means to decrease stress. It focuses on helping participants be aware of their present moment experience and accepting that experience without judgment. My favorite part is seeing the students that come in, who are perhaps anxious, or unsure of themselves, and watching them transform into someone who is confident and really ready to take that next step. I honestly just encourage students to take advantage of the Office of Student Affairs, and to take the opportunity to come get to know us. We can do a lot, and the more we know you, the better an advocate and resource we can be for you.

Students who are interested in scheduling an appointment with Rebecca can do so here.