In-Focus features a staff member as a way to learn more about our amazing staff. This time, we highlight CIP Berkeley Career Coordinator, Dominique Ousborn. We asked Dominique a few questions about her role, her CIP experience, and what she does when she’s not at the Berkeley Center.
What’s your most memorable CIP experience?
My most memorable experience working at CIP is from our Field Day in Santa Cruz. This was my first off site field day experience and I was very nervous to leave our CIP Berkeley bubble. Would I be able to connect outside the Center? ABSOLUTELY! That trip helped bond my relationships with students and staff that I would not have been able to inside the center. Hiking, breaking bread together, and enjoying Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk will always be a memorable experience for me.
What have you most learned in your time at CIP?
What I have learned the most is to allow the student to invite you on their journey. When you lead with patience and collaboration there is a beautiful journey to explore. Supporting the student and putting one's own agenda and goals to the side will invite a beautiful experience to unfold. Our students crave independence and just need the proper support to help them achieve their goals.
How has CIP helped you grow in your career?
CIP has helped me grow into a leader. I began with CIP as a student support specialist however I had aspirations to become a leader. Pilar believed that I could step into that role if only I had the confidence to do so. After a month of working as the tentative career coordinator I was asked to reapply and was hired permanently in that role. Now my sights are to grow more in this new role professionally.
What’s your favorite part about working at CIP?
My favorite part about working at CIP is seeing the students interact and use different tools they have learned at CIP. From PEERS to HALT it is remarkable to see them express themselves in a socially appropriate way.
CIP’s focus for the program year is Aspire to Be.... What do you aspire to do or be in the upcoming year?
I aspire to be intentional in my interactions with students and staff. This year I want to develop deeper relationships with those around me. Participating in open, vulnerable communication will be my intention this upcoming year.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I own 15 pairs of the same sneaker just in different colors, AirMax 95.
Is there anything your colleagues don’t know about you that you’d like to share?
One thing my colleagues don’t know about me is that I would like to write a memoir about my life.