Panorama High School / Magnets

Lilit Azarian is a proud first-generation immigrant. She holds a bachelor’s in English and history from UCLA and a master’s in teaching from Stanford University. She also holds a master’s in education from UCLA Principal Leadership Institute.

“Information and knowledge are power. I love empowering students and families with the information they need to make the best decisions for their future.”

Tony Aldana, who grew up in Hollywood and Los Angeles, earned a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Cal State L.A. and two master’s degrees – one in counseling and another in educational leadership.

“I love the connection you are able to make with students and being able to inspire them.”

Nubia Velasquez is a first-generation college graduate. She holds a bachelor’s in psychology with a minor child, adolescent, and family studies from Cal State Bakersfield. Nubia’s future plans include earning a master’s in school counseling.

“I am proud and very excited to be a part of GEAR UP because it is a program that creates opportunities for students and families. I am dedicated to seeing children and families thrive in their communities and that is why it’s important to me to create a safe and healthy environment.”

Cindy is a first-generation student that started at community college and transferred to Cal Poly Pomona for her undergraduate degree in engineering.  After graduating she started working in education and enjoyed it so much that she decided to stay in this field to continue working with students.

I am very excited to be working with GEAR UP because I have always enjoyed working with students. I know that my educational path was a non-traditional path that is still a work in progress but I believe that my journey can add value to the students I assist. I hope that they can take away that there is no set path for their education and if there are changes in their intended path that does not mean that they could not reach their end goal.

Araceli Rodriguez, who grew up in Pacoima and San Fernando, holds an associate’s in child development.

“I enjoy making a difference in someone’s life and motivating others to pursue a higher education.”