Martha Enciso
The positive influence of USC graduate student Martha Enciso reaches well beyond just her colleagues at El Centro. As a graduate assistant, Martha has made connections with numerous local K-12 youngsters, spreading the word about the diverse student life at USC.
As part of El Centro’s outreach efforts, Martha – a USC alumna with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a double minor in advertising and political science – has helped establish a working relationship with the Multicultural Recruitment department within USC’s Admission office. As partners, El Centro and Admission staff members provide detailed information about USC, the admissions process, student life and the university’s cultural centers to interested elementary and high school students from surrounding communities.
In particular, Martha – set to graduate in May with a master’s degree in education, postsecondary administration and student affairs – provides tours of El Centro, answers questions about college and sets up USC student panels to give prospective students a glimpse into university life. “Through our joint efforts, we have been able to increase awareness of USC’s diversity,” she said.
Martha also works with USC’s Latino Parent Association and recently helped create El Centro’s Wall of History, a timeline of photos and blurbs depicting the center’s influence and past. “I really have enjoyed the interaction with the students, staff and parents who come to El Centro,” said Martha, who hopes to begin USC’s doctoral program in education and work in the area of college admissions once she finishes her master’s degree. “Working here has given me an opportunity to make new friends.”