Yami Reyes

Yami Reyes

Women's and Gender Studies Department Welcomes GA

  • Program: First-year, M.S. in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs
  • Anticipated Graduation Year: May 2022
  • Hometown: Reading, PA

Why did you choose to work for the WGS Dept, and what does it mean for you to be affiliate with Women’s & Gender Studies?

As a graduate of the WGS program, I was overjoyed at the opportunity to work with the department. I grew tremendously as a feminist leader through the courses and advisement of the WGS department. It is incredibly meaningful to work alongside the department as their graduate assistant. I hope I can help support their work to uplift students through social justice work and education.

What previous work have you done that aligns with feminism/WGS?

Previously, I have worked with the Center for Trans and Queer Advocacy and the College of Arts and Humanities. I have also been on the executive boards of the Triota Honors Society and Gender Studies Club. Aside from those positions, I have also served on panels and done collaborations with various organizations and departments, such as the Center for Women and Gender Equity and Lawrence Dowdy Multicultural Center.

Why did you choose to attend WCU and/or your area of study at WCU?

I first came to WCU for my undergraduate degree in 2016. What drew me to WCU was how passionate students and faculty were about their field of study. I noticed how this passion propelled them to connect with surrounding communities and sharing their knowledge with others on campus. I found this kind of community with the WGS department as well! Other WGS students connected me to leadership opportunities on campus, which led me to follow a career in student affairs.

What do you plan to do after graduation?

After I graduate, I want to jump right in to working with students through student affairs! Starting college can be a stressful transition, and I want to support students, especially those who are marginalized in any way, the best way I can.

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn’t learn from your resume alone?

I love reading about internet culture, especially topics like stan culture and the digital self. It’s fascinating to study and be a part of.