Valeria Cortes-Rivera
Senior College Access Counselor @Goddard Riverside
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WORK HISTORY
Senior College Access Counselor @Goddard Riverside
New York, NY, US
Counsel 50+ first-generation, low-income students and families on college applications and financial aid in English and Spanish, improving student success rates and engagement by 20%Manage critical timelines and programs, ensuring smooth transitions during organizational shifts and improving program continuity by 40% Build relationships with local high schools, colleges, and community-based organizations, boosting program visibility by 15% and expanding support services for students and families
EDUCATION
New York University
Bachelor's degree, Latino Studies, Nutrition
COOP Careers Fellowship
Digital Marketing
ABOUT VALERIA CORTES-RIVERA
I am a proud first-generation Xicana and NYC native from Harlem and Washington Heights with a deep passion for education equity, food sovereignty, and community empowerment. My journey began at New York University, where I earned a BA in Latino Studies with a Minor in Nutrition. There, I found my voice in advocacy, leading events and fundraisers centered on the needs of marginalized communities and families impacted by illness and injustice.Knowing the barriers I overcame to access higher education, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting fellow first-generation students of color. As a bilingual college access counselor, I’ve spent years guiding low-income, first-gen students of color through the complexities of the college application process. From building workshops to leading programs, I’m committed to ensuring all students have the tools and encouragement to thrive.Outside of education, I’ve stayed grounded in food justice, serving on the Steering Committee of the Washington Heights and Inwood (WHIN) Food Council as the Membership Engagement Coordinator. Through WHIN, I connected with fellow food justice advocates to organize community events and programs to promote accessible, culturally relevant nutrition education within our community.I’m passionate about creating meaningful connections, building impactful programs, and advocating for communities that deserve to be seen and heard. I believe in the power of clear communication and thoughtful strategy to drive change.I’m excited to bring that same energy into digital marketing using storytelling, strategy, and creativity to uplift marginalized voices, expand access to education and nutrition, and connect people with brands and missions that center on equity and community.
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