Abigail Gifargis

About Abigail Gifargis

I’m a second-year Psychology student at San Diego State University with an emphasis in neuroscience and a passion for advancing mental health awareness and advocacy. My academic and professional interests center on anxiety disorders, clinical psychology, and expanding access to mental health resources.Through SDSU's Counseling & Psychological Services (C&PS), I serve as both a Peer Educator and Counseling Intern. As a Counseling Intern with the Bounce Back Program, I support students on academic notice by facilitating discussions, developing lesson plans, and fostering skills that promote academic success and personal well-being. As a Peer Educator, I collaborate with C&PS clinicians to design and implement psycho educational outreach programs where I engage diverse student populations in conversations around mental health and stigma reduction. These roles have strengthened my communication, mentorship, and psychoeducation skills while reinforcing my commitment to helping others navigate challenges.Beyond academics, I serve as the Career and Personal Development Director for the Gamma Delta Chapter of Chi Omega at SDSU, where I advance my chapter’s career, professional, and personal development objectives through programming and mentorship initiatives. Through this position, I’ve made it a priority to ensure that my approach to programming and leadership not only supports our members’ career development, but also their mental health and well-being.I am currently seeking opportunities to gain experience in clinical mental health settings and psychology research, particularly in anxiety disorders and evidence-based interventions. I am excited to continue learning, contributing to meaningful research, and supporting individuals through compassionate, science-driven care.

Experience

1. Peer Educator | Counseling & Psychological Services

   San Diego State University

   May 2026 — Present · San Diego, CA

   - Collaborate with Counseling & Psychological Services (CPS) clinicians to design & implement psychoeducational outreach programs grounded in evidence-based mental health practices. - Lead & actively contribute to outreach initiatives through Active Minds, engaging diverse student populations in conversations around mental health & stigma reduction. - Serve as a peer resource by providing support, referrals, & accurate information on campus mental health services to fellow students.

2. Counseling Intern | Counseling & Psychological Services (Bounce Back Program)

   San Diego State University

   May 2026 — Present

   - Collaborate closely with CPS clinicians to support a psychoeducational course for students on academic notice, integrating principles of academic intervention & mental health support. - Deliver psycho education on stress, motivation, & cognitive-behavioral coping strategies, translating psychological theory into practical tools to enhance students’ academic performance & psychological well-being. - Facilitate classroom discussions & small-group activities, promoting insight, self-regulation, & adaptive learning strategies within a supportive environment. - Apply active listening & early intervention skills to identify students in distress, providing appropriate referrals & reinforcing help-seeking behaviors.

3. Golf Camp Counselor & Coach

   Glenview Park District

   Apr 2026 — Present · Glenview, IL

   - Lead daily golf instruction and activities for youth ages 8–15, fostering skill development, confidence, and teamwork through individualized coaching and mentorship. - Instruct campers in fundamental and intermediate golf techniques, including swing mechanics, putting, chipping, and course management, adapting lessons to various skill levels. - Demonstrate extensive knowledge of golf course etiquette, sportsmanship, rules of play, and respect for fellow golfers to promote personal growth and responsible conduct. - Build positive relationships with campers and families through clear communication, encouragement, and professional customer service.

4. Career and Personal Development Director

   Chi Omega, Gamma Delta Chapter

   Dec 2025 — Present · San Diego, CA

   - Plan & execut large-scale events, including a milestone alumni brunch for 350+ attendees, overseeing logistics, budget management, vendor coordination, & strategic communications. - Lead professional development initiatives for 350+ members through structured workshops, individualized coaching, & skill-building programs. - Advance the chapter’s career, professional, & personal development objectives through strategic programming, mentorship initiatives, & long-term planning. - Foster industry connections by creating networking opportunities with alumni & local professionals, increasing member engagement & career opportunities.

5. Sales Associate

   Notice boutique

   Nov 2023 — Dec 2025 · Glenview, IL

   - Maintained store cleanliness & organization to support an optimal customer experience. Handled cash & electronic transactions efficiently through a POS system. - Assisted customers with product selection, contributing to a positive & welcoming atmosphere & leading sales of up to $700. - Oversaw merchandise upkeep, including sizing accuracy, pricing compliance, steaming, & display organization.

6. Golf Caddie

   Glen View Club

   Apr 2021 — Mar 2026 · Glenview, IL

   - Collaborated with fellow caddies to deliver refined service consistent with private club standards. - Provided personalized assistance to members and guests, including carrying, cleaning, and organizing golf equipment. - Maintained cleanliness of equipment and course areas while upholding proper etiquette and service protocols. - Ensured a discreet, courteous, and professional experience for all members and guests.

Education

• San Diego State University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA · Psychology (Neuroscience Emphasis)

  2025 — 2029