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SFCC Human Services Students Are Making a Difference
My volunteer work in the Human Services program educated me about issues in our community.
Monica Archuleta
"I have enjoyed the human services classes and learned a lot of useful information that I know I will carry with me in all I do. Through doing volunteer work, I have had the opportunity to work in a diverse environment with people who are struggling with substance abuse, mental health, and financial problems. It has helped me to gain perspective on the types of concerns facing communities and provided me with the knowledge to assist others when they are facing these problems.
It’s a great program and Dr. Santa Maria is very supportive and encouraging. Through this program you will gain understanding and appreciation while developing the skills necessary to make a difference in the lives of others and ultimately in the community.”
Monica is currently a full-time student. She will graduate in December 2012 and plans to continue her education and earn her B.A. in social work at Highlands University.
I could never have imagined the scope of work covered by Human Services before my classes at SFCC.
Barb Mascarenas
“I have learned so much about the services available to citizens who need help. The focus of my attention has been on the elderly population and their concerns. Unfortunately, our society has gaps that need to be filled in human services. I’m thankful for a program that makes obtaining the necessary education available to meet those human service needs.
I would encourage you to follow your heart when thinking about a degree in Human Services. The reward of helping someone obtain services that he/she is entitled to, and then seeing that person succeed in their lives is completely wonderful. I can't think of another field that would give me such a good feeling for my hard work.”
Barb manages a scholarship program for students who are under heavy financial/personal burden, but who want to complete an associates degree at SFCC. She feels rewarded seeing shy students become confident, capable citizens.
Barb will complete the Human Services A.A. degree program in May 2012. She plans to enroll at UNM and hopes to earn a University Studies Bachelor’s degree in the next two years.
The Human Services program at SFCC showed me the resources and tools available in Santa Fe.
Alma C. Iglesias Chaparro
“I'm currently doing internships at Boys & Girls Club of Santa Fe, and ENLACE. At BGCSF I assist at the office and am the main translator for parents who have difficulty with their English once they register their children. At ENLACE I am working on a Human Services Directory and I recently became a member of the SFCC Parent Club that ENLACE is creating.
The human services program is a great start for those who like to help others and for those who are compassionate. It has benefited me in a brilliant way; I have mastered my skills in the helping professions, I have gained experience and it made me be aware of the need in the community.
If you like to be involved in the community and you also like to help, consider the human services program at SFCC, it is a great start and will teach you great experiences. You will grow not only as a student but as a human by caring for others."
Alma will graduate in May of 2012 with an Associate degree in human services. She will start her bachelor's degree in social work at Highlands University in the fall of 2012. She plans to work with women and children.
I've enhanced my community outreach skills through my classes at SFCC.
Carmella Quam
“I started the program after working in the field of social work for more than 13 years. In 2008 I got a “personal reality check” after I was turned down for a position not because I had no work experience in the field but because I didn’t have a social work degree. I had started as a personal care attendant and worked my way up to managing a satellite office for an Independent Living Center with a staff of five. At age 44 I decided to return to school to start my journey into obtaining a degree; the fear of not knowing what I was getting myself into was a journey in itself.
After taking most of my core classes and meeting with my human service adviser, I realized that I would be okay. Through the program I have come to realize that one of my strengths in social work is doing research on resources and services available, and matching individuals with the services that they need. I have been able to enhance my skills in the areas of outreach and collaboration through my classes here at SFCC.
I would encourage any student to go back to school; whether the student is young or old, a traditional or non-traditional student, who may have a desire or passion for helping others, enhancing one’s life or assisting in empowering an individual to find their own path in life.”
Carmella will graduate with her associate’s degree in human services in May of 2012. Her goal is to work towards her dream of becoming a Community Organizer/ Developer.
I got the real-life experience I needed with my internship through SFCC.
Patricia Abatemarco
"The human services program has not only taught me the skills necessary to begin working in the field; it has provided me with both the confidence and the contacts I needed.
The program is a nice size; classes aren't too large. This allows you to build relationships with the other students. The instructors are very supportive and the classroom structure encourages the free exchange of ideas. The internships are a great way to 'test your wings' in the community and provide valuable real life experience."
Pat is currently a full-time student. After she graduates, she will continue on to New Mexico Highlands University, and plans to earn both Bachelor's and Masters degrees in social work.
I have the passion to make a difference with my skills from SFCC.
Carlos Balladares
"I graduated from Santa Fe Community College with my associate degree in human services, and I received my bachelor's degree in social work from Highlands University in May 2009.
I work for a non-profit organization called the New Mexico Young Fathers Project, with high-risk fathers that need support. I am a case manager, which means I help fathers find jobs, education, housing, day care, and more. I facilitate for groups in the Juvenile Detention Center, Capshaw Middle School, Santa Fe High, and at Santa Fe Community College in the Early Child Development Center. In this job, I've been able to apply the tools I obtained at SFCC and NMHU."
Carlos began pursuing a dual degree program of an MBA (Master's in Business Administration) and an MSW (Master's in Social Work) in the fall of 2009. He recommends that students who have the passion to make a difference in people's lives and in their community get started with the Human Services program at SFCC.
My classes at SFCC have been directly applicable to real-life situations.
Scott Barry
"I am pursuing an associate degree in human services, with the secondary goal of achieving LADAC (Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor) certification. I will graduate in May 2011.
I am working in the field at two different human services agencies as an intern. One is an "umbrella" agency that assesses a client's needs and coordinates needed services. The second agency utilizes an Experiential Adventure-Based Resiliency Model for treatment. It incorporates adventure, challenge and interpersonal processing/reflection with a life skills curriculum.
I would encourage people to pursue an associate degree in human services at SFCC as a stepping stone to higher education. This degree alone opens SO many doors to rewarding careers. The human services field is very diverse and full of opportunities. The professors at the college have been amazing and I have made numerous contacts at the college that I will take with me into my professional career. Your experience at the college will help you focus on a particular aspect of human services that interests you!"
Scott will earn an associate in human services degree in conjunction with a bachelor's in psychology from a four-year college. He plans on pursuing a master's degree subsequent to graduation and to share his knowledge while helping members of the Santa Fe community.
My classes at SFCC confirmed my understanding of what it means to be a helper.
Lydia Berlin
"I am in the Human Services program with a focus on the traumatic stress studies area. The program has given me many tools that I know I will use as I pursue my career in helping others and hopefully changing lives.
The human services program is a great start and foundation to work from. It has the diversity to apply to whatever field or career you hope to pursue. The well-rounded classes prepare you with sufficient knowledge to handle situations you might face in your professional career."
Lydia graduated in May 2011. She plans to continue her education with a bachelor’s degree in social work. Her goal is to gain more training in outdoor education and leadership, and develop an outdoor youth program once she has completed her degree.
My degree from SFCC taught me to help others face real challenges.
Susan Cooper
"I graduated in December 2006 with my AA in human services. I transferred into New Mexico Highlands University's social work program in the fall of 2007 and quickly realized how well prepared and confident I had become from my classes at SFCC. So much of what I was learning at NMHU I had already covered at SFCC and it really solidified and reinforced important aspects of social work and human service related work. I became far more self-reflective and aware of my own strengths and limitations.
Take advantage of your two years at SFCC and consider the areas of focus in the human services field that you plan to follow. If you have interests in working in schools, consider taking electives that can be applied to certification in becoming a prevention specialist. If you are interested in drug education, take classes that can be applied towards your LADAC. The instructors at SFCC take an interest in their students and they are always available to speak with you about any concerns you have.
My first priority and passion is being a mom. I have enjoyed the freedom and flexibility of being a student because it lends itself well to being a parent. As a single mother I have always found time to volunteer at school and with after school activities. We study together at night - it's perfect."
Susan graduated Magna Cum Laude from NMHU in May 2009. She is currently doing her practicum at Capital High School and has gained real awareness of the challenges many teens face in Santa Fe. Susan plans to graduate with her Master's in clinical social work in May 2010.
I'm serving my community thanks to my degree from SFCC.
Joaquin Cordova
"Being in the human services program was such a great experience and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in getting a degree. If not for the Human Services program I would never have received my Bachelor of Social Work degree from New Mexico Highlands University. The program has given me the skills to think and to not be afraid to go after my full potential. It also showed me the importance we play in the lives of the populations we serve.
Take full advantage of the education and opportunities that it gives you. Not many people have a chance to get the education you are receiving; nobody will do it but you."
Joaquin graduated in the spring of 2006. Currently, he works for the Santa Fe Boys and Girls Club as a Case Manager for youth whose parents are incarcerated. He manages the grant through the State and goes into the county jail to teach classes from the Peanut Butter and Jelly curriculum, a corrections-based program that teaches about communication skills between parent and child. Joaquin plans to earn a master's in social work degree from New Mexico Highlands University.
My classes at SFCC helped me choose a career that was truly for me.
Celedina Coss
"The human services program at SFCC has provided me with a well-rounded education in the different aspects of human services, and given me a better understanding of the greater picture. This is a good way to get your feet wet and discover if the helping professions are truly for you. What you learn in Dr. Santa Maria's classes can be invaluable no matter what course in life you choose.
The program has helped me in my job at the Santa Fe Rape Crisis and Trauma Treatment Center. In my job as an Education and Prevention Specialist, I serve Santa Fe and the surrounding areas, talking to children, youth and adults about sexual violence and ways to prevent it."
Celedina graduated in August 2010 with her AA in health and human services. She plans to transfer to Highlands University and earn a Masters in social work. She'll seek employment in the public schools and continue to work with youth in a helpful and meaningful manner.
With my degree from SFCC I have a profession doing what I love.
Juan Carlos Deoses
"The program has made me aware of the many opportunities to move forward in the field of social work. One of the greatest benefits is that I was able to connect and stay in touch with organizations and agencies in my community that will be useful resources in the future. I have gathered a valuable knowledge base for my profession.
If your passion is helping others in your community and you want a profession doing what you love to do every day, then look into the human services program at SFCC.
Currently, I am a community organizer for Somos Un Pueblo Unido, an immigrant rights organization based in Santa Fe. I've been a Student Ambassador for SFCC for two years and as part of my internship I'm the assistant coordinator for the program. I am also an intern with the Intensive Community Monitoring program (ICM) for the state of New Mexico."
Juan Carlos graduated in May 2010 with his associate degree in human services and in the fall of 2010 with degrees in Spanish language and exercise science. He will transfer to Highlands University in the fall of 2010 to obtain his bachelor's in social work and exercise science.
Juan Carlos' dream is to create a youth organization in Santa Fe. His vision for the center includes assistance with education, career counseling, and an open gym. His goal is to provide resources and a sense of hope to the neediest members of the community.
I can have an impact on others' lives with my degree from SFCC.
Alma Gallegos
"The human services program at SFCC is excellent; it has taught me how to help others by being there and listening to them. I always knew I wanted to help others but I didn't know in what aspect of life; thanks to the program I have a new direction.
I am currently doing an internship at the Hoy Recovery Center in Espanola, working with substance abuse inpatients. My internship has helped me narrow down which aspect of Human Services I want to pursue."
Alma graduated in the spring of 2010. She plans continuing her education and is looking in to all the options open to her. Her choices include obtaining her bachelor's and master's degrees or even continuing on with her nursing degree.
My degree from SFCC showed me how to find the resources to help others in need.
Kenia Gallegos
"Being in this program has reinforced my career goals; I am now sure that this is the field I want to be in. The human services program has also taught me a lot about myself. I was able to learn what my strengths and weaknesses are and work on them.
I recommend this program for those people who like to help others and their community. The teachers are great, you get to meet new people, create friendships, and connect with people and agencies that you can refer to in the future. The internship is a great way to begin your journey and gain the experience necessary to continue your education."
Kenia graduated in May 2011 and currently tutors at YouthWorks!, an agency that provides job training and free GED classes along with life skills to at-risk youth. She will continue her education at New Mexico Highlands University working towards a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW). Her goal is to work with at-risk youth and become a Licensed Adult Drug and Alcohol Counselor.
My degree from SFCC taught me how to help others help themselves.
Carlos Gonzales
"The experience of becoming a student again at age 32 was very difficult; however, it has molded my work habits along with my personal habits. I have become much more organized and socially aware of the need for helpers in the community. My professor is very thorough and compassionate in her approach to becoming a helper.
This program is designed to help you find a purpose. Through different interactions with outside agencies, you are able to see the wide variety of helper positions and roles. The possibilities are endless as to the types of careers open in this field. If you love helping people to help themselves you are in the right place."
Carlos has been a volunteer in the First Judicial District Drug Court since October 2001. He plans to attend SFCC's College for Working Adults (CWA) in the fall of 2009 to finish core classes and achieve his AA in both business administration and human services, then test for his Licensed Adult Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LADAC) to begin work as a Drug Court Counselor. After he earns his AA degrees, he will seek to obtain a BA in human services.
Employers started calling after I got my degree from SFCC.
Danielle Jimenez
"Besides the seeds of infinite wisdom that Dr. Santa-Maria planted in my mind (eg. Ducks never stay in a row; change is inevitable, growth is optional) and the practical knowledge gained from the courses such as group therapy techniques, self-care options, and case management, the human services program made me extremely marketable as a potential employee.
In fact, I posted my resume online for recruiters to search before I started the program but received no replies. Two days after graduation, I secured very gainful employment working as an outreach representative for a national private company that contracts with state human service programs.
This is a great program to add to your existing education for the marketability that it brings to your resume. It is also a good program to go into if you know you want to help others but you're not exactly sure what you want to do with that desire."
Danielle graduated in May 2010. In addition to her human services degree, Danielle has a BA in anthropology and plans to enter into a Master's program, focusing on social and anthropological research in her community.
My SFCC degree helped me to put my love of volunteering to work.
Maureen Johnson
"The Human Services program is geared to produce loving, giving, non-judgmental professionals and caregivers, who will contribute much to our aging population. As a Hospice volunteer, the program tremendously broadened my world-view. I was in my 60s when I joined the program and graduated. Prior to taking the required classes for a human services degree, I was a person who loved volunteering but did not have the knowledge to compliment my desire to help and understand others.
As the Baby Boomers age, health and human services professionals will be in great demand. Having a mentor like Dr. Santa-Maria assures a qualified population of students in the State of New Mexico and beyond. I would encourage the students in Human Services to go beyond their Associate's degree and be our future human services providers."
Maureen graduated in December of 2007. She volunteers at Presbyterian Medical Services Hospice. As a senior citizen who raised five children and worked for 18 years to help them through college, she can now give her time to others.
My instructors at SFCC helped me to believe that I could succeed.
Sabine LeBow
"In 1991, I went to SFCC and got my GED and started taking classes slowly as my work schedule allowed. The instructors at the college encouraged me and helped me to believe that I could succeed in school and have a successful career.
The Human Services program prepares students to enter into the field and provides them with the knowledge to continue with higher-level education. The instructors are highly experienced in the field and teach both theory and practice. The program helped me to become a better person as I grew to understand psychology."
Sabine received her AA in human services in 2001, her bachelor's in social work in 2003 and her master's in social work degree in 2005. Sabine currently works for the Santa Fe Vet Center, providing readjustment counseling to combat veterans and their families. Working with student interns at the Center has inspired her to consider teaching as a future career.
My life experience and my degree from SFCC make me a mentor for others.
Lydia Leyba
"When I retired I knew I still wanted to be busy, and I've always felt the desire to help people. The Human Services program is a perfect fit because it has given me a greater awareness of the community needs here in Santa Fe.
This is a wonderful program. Dr. Santa-Maria is always available for her students, offering encouragement and praise. Her classes are taught with hands-on exercises that have been helpful in the many areas of Human Services."
Lydia is serving her internship at Cesar Chavez Elementary School as a student mentor and working with children with learning disabilities. She graduated with her associate's degree in May 2009. Lydia began work on her bachelor's in social work at New Mexico Highlands University in the fall of 2009.
I can help people through their life's transitions with my degree from SFCC.
Dennis McCutcheon
"I am very fortunate to have found a degree that leads to a career doing what I love to do. When I found out that I would be able to return to school it took a semester to decide on a major. I asked myself, 'What do I want to do regardless of money or responsibilities?' My answer was that I would like to travel, get to know people and help those in need. The human services degree along with my plans to go on to a Master's in social work is a perfect fit.
This program has been a great first step in my career plans. I have gained much and I have given much. If you like working with people, consider a career in the helping professions. There are so many directions that you can take in this field. If this catches your curiosity and resonates with you in some way, look into it."
Dennis is finishing up his junior year in social work. He wants to utilize his building and outdoors skills towards his career. Dennis' ideal job once he earns his Master's is to work with adolescents and young adults. He would like to pursue a life working in the field of adventure learning and therapy.
My classes at SFCC made me a better advocate for people in need.
Dana McIntosh
"I had worked as a volunteer in the field of human services for a decade, but without any formal training. The courses I have taken have given me more self-confidence in my ability to deal properly with people who have problems such as drug/alcohol addiction, sexual abuse, poverty, child abuse and mental disorders.
I would definitely recommend the Human Services program to anyone who is interested in working in the helping professions. Dr. Maria Santa-Maria has developed a theoretical yet concrete curriculum that gives the student practical knowledge that can be applied at once.
Currently, I work as a volunteer at the Santa Fe Rape Crisis and Trauma Treatment Center in their front office and as a hotline advocate. I am also working with the agency's Board and other volunteers organizing fundraisers for the Center."
Dana McIntosh came to Santa Fe from Charlotte, NC. After she graduated with her associate's degree, Dana plans to continue her education and work towards a BA in either psychology or social work.
I learned compassion and understanding for others through my classes at SFCC.
Anna Victoria Montoya
"The Human Services program at Santa Fe Community College has allowed me to gain an overall better outlook on my life. Much of the material gave me insight to who I really am and who I'm striving to be. It also gave me a better understanding of the everyday issues many individuals have to live through. It taught me how to be more understanding and compassionate toward others. You never really know what battles they may be fighting within themselves.
The Human Services program is a great start to many interesting and fulfilling careers. It arms you with tools that are required in almost any career that involves interaction with society. If you would like to gain overall knowledge of social issues, I highly recommend this program."
Anna graduated in May 2010. She has relocated to Phoenix with her husband, where she would like to enroll in an Arizona State University program focusing on the business aspect of running a non-profit organization.
I made life-long friends in my classes at SFCC.
Caroline Montoya
“Being in the human services program has boosted my confidence and given me the ability to recognize my own self worth. I would tell other students to take advantage of the interaction with other students in your classes; not only does it provide open doors but can give you new insight and life-long friends.”
Caroline graduated with her AA in human services in the fall of 2009 and received a certificate in traumatic stress aide in May 2011. She has several job opportunities to explore and will be working in the field soon. She plans to go on to Highlands University and earn her bachelor’s degree in human services and business.
I'm exploring diverse pathways to service with my degree from SFCC.
Anthony Moya
"This program is perfect for anyone who has the passion in life to help others. The field of human services gives students so many opportunities to grow and explore different paths as opposed to being tied down to one particular genre of study with other degrees. The college has done a great job in bringing an instructor with the same philosophy that all her students share and that has greatly increased my chances of being successful not only in the work field, but also in life.
My time here at SFCC has allowed me to pursue many different avenues in the field of human services. I've made several contacts through Dr. Santa-Maria and through my internship course that will help me when I graduate and pursue a career."
Anthony plans to continue his education and earn his bachelor's and master's degrees in social work at Highlands University. He is currently doing a practicum at the 1st Judicial District Court as a legal advocate in partnership with Esperanza Shelter.
My degree from SFCC gave me the gift of helping others.
Monica Romero
"I will be graduating in May 2010 with an AA in human services and I will also be one of the first to receive a traumatic aide certificate.
The human services program at SFCC is outstanding! It helped me to discover the person I was always striving to be. I knew I wanted to help others and to make a difference in people's lives, and this program has given me the confidence, knowledge and skills to do so. There is not a better gift then helping others who are in need and making a difference!
If you have a passion to help others, this is defiantly the program for you. Dr. Maria Santa-Maria is always there to give you the encouragement that you need when times get tough and is always understanding when, as she says, "life happens!"
Monica is currently working for a behavioral health agency and plans to obtain a Bachelor's degree and eventually to achieve her Master's. Her dream is to develop a program to provide support and guidance to children suffering from childhood obesity.
With my degree from SFCC I'll have the confidence to take on my new career.
Laurel Shafter
"I have been working in my field since 2008 in the Adult Basic Education Department at SFCC. My job is more human services-related than I expected it to be - students may come here with challenges such as learning disabilities and problems at home. Their issues come from deeper levels than just the academic.
I would definitely recommend the Human Services program to any student who has a desire to make a difference in other people's lives. I found the advisory support very helpful; and the classes necessary to receive my associate degree were interesting and informative.
The program provided me with the necessary tools to move forward with confidence and knowledge in the career field I'll be entering. My goal is to work in domestic violence prevention and counseling through Esperanza Shelter."
Laurel graduated in the spring of 2010. She plans to continue her education at Highlands University, pursuing her master's degree in social work.
I'm breaking down cultural barriers with my degree from SFCC.
Mushobwe Shimilimo
"I am an international student at Santa Fe Community College. When I first came here my intention was to study criminal justice. After talking with an adviser, I learned that I could still work with criminal related issues with a degree in human services. In the program, I have learned different ways of overcoming stressful situations while helping people. It is very therapeutic to make a difference in someone's life. It feels as though I have a purpose to be here - I never knew helping others could make one's life so fulfilling.
I would like to encourage other students to look into the Human Service program because there is so much anyone can do with this degree. In this profession you can learn new languages and work with people from different cultures. A degree in Human Services can also be essential in a corrections department or clinical environment because the information learned is applicable to these fields."
Mushobwe graduated with her associate's degree in May 2009. She plans to attend Highlands University to earn a bachelor's degree in sociology. After completing her studies she intends to work with immigrants. Her greatest dream is to work for United Nations International Children's Emergency Funds (UNICEF) or Immigration and Naturalization Services (INS).
The skills I learned at SFCC are helping refugees start new lives.
Samia van Hattum
"The Human Services program and my education at SFCC prepared me to transfer to a university setting and gave me the skills and self confidence I needed to succeed in higher education. When I began my third-year social work classes at Saint Louis University, I found I had already learned much of the material being covered in my classes at SFCC.
The Human Services program at SFCC will give you the educational foundation and skills needed to continue your education in the human services fields. I found my professors to be highly supportive, not only of my education at SFCC, but also my continued pursuits after I graduated."
Samia has almost completed her bachelor's degree in social work at Saint Louis University and is doing her Social Work practicum (internship) in a refugee resettlement agency in St. Louis. Many of the skills she relies on in her work every day are those she garnered from her education at SFCC. Samia is applying to graduate school, intending to earn her master's in social work and considering applying to a dual master's program for social work and public health.
I have the confidence to put my skills to work with my degree from SFCC.
Jolie von Ogden
"SFCC's human services program really prepared me to enter the human services field. The curriculum was very broad and gave me ample opportunity to choose the direction I wanted to apply my degree. The staff at SFCC was caring, attentive and available to help me become successful.
Because of my degree, I am eligible to apply for a license to become a Substance Abuse Associate Counselor. I am very grateful to have been given the opportunity to be on the path of doing what I love."Jolie von Ogden received her AA in human services in 2009. She feels that her education at SFCC gave her the skills and confidence to begin working in the helping profession and she is now employed as a peer support specialist. Jolie plans to continue on to graduate school and pursue a degree in psychology and social work.
Back to Human Services program page.
For more information, please contact Dr. Maria Santa-Maria, (505) 428-1753, maria.santamaria@sfcc.edu.