Yesenia Valenzuela has a dream to one day open a daycare center with tailored developmental programs for individuals with disabilities. Given her passion and drive to succeed, those dreams are really more like a road map.

After graduating from California State University, Long Beach, with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, she worked as an Early Interventionist. However, she soon found herself wanting to do more to help individuals, which led her to the South Central Los Angeles Regional Center (SCLARC), where she works as a Service Coordinator. In this role, she provides case management to individuals with developmental disabilities.

During her two years at SCLARC, she has found the work immensely satisfying. “Every day is rewarding when you hear the parents of the individuals share how our services have helped their children,” explained Yesenia. “Hearing children talking or excelling in their milestones is always heartwarming. It is also a positive reinforcement that we are impacting lives.”

Growing Her Skills Through an Advanced Degree

While enjoying her job, Yesenia has aspirations to grow professionally. Her program manager, Odulia Juarez, shared her own experience returning to the classroom at the University of West Los Angeles (UWLA) and how that helped her grow personally and professionally. Since earning an advanced degree, Odulia is now Chief of Case Management at SCLARC.

“My plan after CSULB was to get my Masters in psychology, but I didn’t feel I was ready,” stated Yesenia. “I felt like I needed more real-life experience and to find my passion. When I learned about the business program at UWLA and how it could help me enhance my career, I knew this was the school for me.”

She enrolled at UWLA’s School of Business to pursue a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Business Innovation. However, returning to the classroom after six years wasn’t easy. “I had to get used to doing assignments, following a school schedule, and giving up the little free time I had,” stated Yesenia. “To top it off, I had just started a new job, and I was learning there as well. And if that wasn’t enough, I also was planning my wedding. As you can imagine, it was a very stressful time as I had spread myself rather thinly. That said, I’m pleased to say I was able to overcome all of the challenges and graduate with honors, and I was chosen to be Class Speaker.”

UWLA is Key to Future Aspirations 

Yesenia has always dreamed of opening her own business. In order to one day start a daycare center for individuals with disabilities, she recognized the importance of acquiring much-needed management skills. UWLA afforded her the opportunity to gain the business education she desired. “I knew this program would teach me to be a leader and manage any business successfully, which was crucial for my plans,” added Yesenia. “For now, I plan to grow in my current organization to gain more experience. But as a result of my Master’s degree studies at UWLA, I have put a strong foundation in place for meeting my future aspirations.”

When she reflects back on the hard work and sacrifices associated with working full-time while studying full-time, Yesenia is convinced it was well worth it. “Despite the challenges and the endless nights that a Master’s entails, it is very rewarding,” explained Yesenia. “This program will give you the tools to grow personally and professionally. If I have any advice for others, it’s don’t give up, be resilient and work hard. UWLA proved to be a great choice for me. It was such a positive experience that I’ve already begun thinking about pursuing my doctorate. When I graduated, I had the crazy idea of joining the UWLA School of Law. It’s definitely something I am still considering.”

As she continues to follow in the footsteps of her mentor, Odulia Juarez, who serves as an example of leadership and perseverance, Yesenia is living proof of how education can be the key to fulfilling your dreams and potential.