About Us
HOP Peer Counselors
Alana Souza, Major: Film
Hey I'm Alana and I am a fun loving Junior at HSU majoring in Film and minoring in Writing. I am from Kailua, HI which is on the island of Oahu on the Hawaiian island chain. This is my 2nd year as a Peer Counselor and I am having a blast! I am a part of the Multi-Cultural Center events staff and I enjoy a good video game session from time to time.
Alex Veazey Major: Political Science Minor: Public Relations
Hi! Im Alex Veazey!! I am a sophomore here a HSU, this is my second year being in HOP! I am currently in the Political Science club, and hope to join others on campus. I come from LA, so this peace, quiet, and living in the forest was a big change for me, but I love it! This school is a community which is my favorite thing. Your teachers actually get to know you, instead of being just another face in a classroom. It’s like having an extended family!
Alina Alishoev. Major: Child Development, Elementary Ed track. Minor:Recreation.
Hi, I'm Alina. I grew up in Oakland Ca and I’m a. I chose HSU because it is absolutely beautiful up here. I fell in love when I came to visit. I like Humboldt for many reasons, one is that the classes are mostly all small, so the professors know you by name. I also like the size of the school, it’s not too big and not too small; walking around, and you will always see people you know and people you have never seen before. And everyone is super nice and friendly here!
Andy Saeteurn. Major: Psychology. Minor: Criminology.
Hey! I'm from Stockton, CA. I am part of part of the
psychology club here in Humboldt and a brother of Chi Phi Fraternity.
Something about me is that I like to talk a lot and I can listen as
well. My motto in life is that "things happen, deal with it, that's
life". So if anyone needs to talk or needs advice. I'm your guy.
Angelica Lua Major: Child Development in Specialized Studies Minor in Ethnic Studies.
Hi my name is Angelica Lua and I am originally from Garden Grove, California. Besides being an HOP counselor I am also involved with The Legacy and the Multicultural Center. Being In Humboldt is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. The people and the environment here is like nowhere else that I have been. HSU has become like a second home to me –a home away from home.
Ashleigh Nelson. Major: Cellular/Molecular Biology. Minor: Chemistry.
My name's Ashleigh, and I'm from a tiny little town in the Sierra-Nevada Mountains. I'm majoring in cellular/molecular biology (with a chemistry minor, because I like to be fancy), and I came to HSU because I heard fabulous things about the biology program. Humboldt also appealed to me because I'm a firm believer that oodles of rain is much better than oodles of snow, mainly because you never have to shovel it, and as you can see, someone with my complexion (translucent) shouldn't be caught dead in the sunnier regions of California unless they want to spend all of their grocery money on SPF 80 sunscreen.
Austin Chester. Major: Cellular Molecular Biology Minor: Communications
Hello Everyone! My name is Austin Chester, and I'm from Trinidad, CA. I grew up going to school in Arcata all of my life. This is my second year here at HSU and I still love it here. I volunteer at St. Joseph Hospital and have been an active rower with HSU men’s crew for a few years. I love backpacking and outdoor sports and even though I think I've explored a lot of what Humboldt has to offer, I know there are still so many awesome adventures to be had. This is going to be an awesome year!
Brittany Campbell. Major: Wildlife.
Hi my name is Brittany and I am a freshman here at Humboldt State. I am from Los Angeles, CA and I am part of the Archery Club. This is my first time being an HOP Counselor and I am too excited for words to have gotten this extraordinary opportunity. I love this school with all my heart and want to spread this love of the school to as many people as possible! The people are amazing, the town is so homey, and I cannot wait to leave this school ready to make a positive difference in the world!
Britney Flatten Major: Cellular Molecular Biology
Hi, my name is Britney Flatten. I am originally from Minnesota, but moved here about two years ago after finding Humboldt State and falling in love with the Northern Pacific Coast. This is my first year at HSU and I couldn't be happier about my life here. I am involved with the Pre-Med club, the Mycology club, and in the works of forming a Civil Liberties Defense Center group on campus to spread the word and education about human rights and environmental concerns. I have been extremely enthused by the incredible knowledge my professors share and am impressed every day by this school as a whole. I am thankful each day that I get to learn at such an outstanding university and hope I can help inspire others to find their own excitement for life and learning here in Humboldt.
Cailin McLaughlin Major: Zoology
My name is Cailin McLaughlin, I was born and raised in Sacramento, CA. This is my first year at HSU and I love this school! Along with being a new HOP Counselor, I am also a member of OACS (Outdoor Adventure & Community Service). I enjoy going on hikes through the Arcata forests, and hanging with friends on the plaza. Being at Humboldt, I have met some of the most amazing and wonderful people that have made my college/life experience just that much more special!
Chibu Okezie. Major: Environmental Management and Protection.
This is my third year at HSU. I was born in Los Angeles and graduated from Hamilton High School in 2010. In addition to HOP, I am also the Public Relations manager of the Marching Lumberjacks. I play Alto Sax and French horn. I love Humboldt State for its hands on approach and unique atmosphere.
Christian Saiki. Major: Psychology.
Hello! I am a sophomore here at HSU, and this is my first semester as an HOP counselor. I’m from the island of Kaua’i, located in Hawai’i. I’ve really been enjoying the variety of things I’ve learned so far and can’t wait to learn more. Humboldt has been a great experience so far, and I especially love what a naturally beautiful place it is!
Christina Kesterson Major: Child Development, with a focus in Social Work.
My name is Christina Kesterson, I am a freshman who is very involved with the community and the school. Being from the LA county area this experience has been incredible; I have met so many new people who are so nice and welcoming. There are so many things I love about Humboldt but the two things I love the most are my HOP family -they are always there for me and we as a family are there for everyone else. The other thing I love are my teachers, they are very helpful and considerate of the student’s needs and aware of different peers and learning styles.
Dylan Karl Major: Wildlife Minor: Music.
My name is Dylan Karl, and I hail all the way from Cincinnati, OH. I am a sophomore of HSU and a newbie of HOP. I am a member of the Lindy Hop club, as well as recently became a member of the Mixed Martial Arts club and a volunteer with Youth Educational Services. I can say, without a doubt, that I am happy and proud to be a member of the Arcata community and to be a HSU Lumberjack. HSU has given me the ability to explore the horizon and still be me.
Elizabeth Meisman, Major: Zoology, Minor: German Studies
My name is Elizabeth Meisman. I am from Boulder, CO. This is my first year at HSU but I already feel that I belong here. As well as being an HOP Counselor, I am on the HSU Women’s Crew Team, I am a performer in the Humboldt Circus, I do research in the paleobotany lab on campus, I am a Wellness Advocate to support stress-free college life, and I regularly volunteer at the Campus Center for Appropriate Technology. I am delighted to be a part of such creative,supportive communities. Throughout every moment, I strive to share the enthusiasm I feel with those around me.
Emma Hopson. Major: Environmental Management and Protection major with an emphasis in Environmental Education and Interpretation with a minor in German
I am a sophomore at HSU. I'm a cali-girl, born in Texas, and raised in Tracy, California since I was 8 years old. My dad went to HSU in the 80's and loved it here, and when he told me about the school when the time came for me to choose a college, and when I came to see the place during Spring Preview I fell in love with everything about the school. Now I am loving every bit of my experience here and I am especially enjoying the time I have spent with the Humboldt Ambassadors and now HOP, and I look forward to more fun times to come!
Gabriela Pelayo Major: Business Marketing.
Hello. My name is Gabriela Pelayo but to most I am known as Gabby. This is my first year at Humboldt State University and I must say that I am truly loving the experience. The teachers, students, and other campus staff are all very friendly, helpful, and welcoming. They certainly made the move from the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, California a lot easier. I love Humboldt. It is simply amazing. I love the weather and all the people like the people from HOP counselors and ambassadors. I can't wait to help others out with HOP counselors and spend the next three years at Humboldt State.
Jacob Carroll-Johnson. Major: Kinesiology
My name is Jacob and I am from Berkeley, CA. It was a big change for me coming from a big city to a small one but I couldn't have been happier with my decision. This is my second year here and I have fallen in love with every aspect of HSU from the classes to the outdoors to the social scenes and athletics. Humboldt state has definitely become my home away from home.
Jane Matthews. Major: French and Francophone Studies.
Hi! I'm from Temecula, California. This is my first year at HSU and I simply adore it here. Along with HOP, I am also associated with the university radio station, KRFH. When I'm not doing schoolwork or attending to my commitments, I really enjoy hiking, books, movies, (vegan) food, and music. I love Humboldt and I want nothing more than to spread those sentiments to everyone I can, hopefully I can get to you too. :)
Jessica Eusebio. Major: Psychology and Spanish.
I’m from Hawaiian Gardens, CA. I’m currently in my junior year. I chose Humboldt because it’s a beautiful place with wonderful people. When I’m not in class or studying I’m usually volunteering somewhere like the YES House, playing with the Marching Lumberjacks, exploring the wonderful trails in Humboldt, or at a club meeting on campus. I am in love with HSU and I can honestly say that choosing to study here has been the best decision I’ve ever made.
Kathryn Brown. Major: Psychology. Minor: Criminal Justice.
I have a passion for social justice and environmental awareness. I love it here at Humboldt State because of the many opportunities for adventure the area offers; whether that's rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, or diving, it’s all here! I love cars and car-culture, dance, and keeping it positive!
Katie Lowe. Major: Communication.
Hi! This is my second year at Humboldt State University, my first year as an HOP counselor and I’m loving every second of it. I come from a small town in the central valley of California called Lemoore. I made the nearly 500 mile move to study Communication and enjoy a nice change of scenery. I have met some amazing friends and mentors along the way, and can’t wait to see what HSU has in store for me in the years ahead.
Lauren Pang. Major: English
Hi! I'm from Kauai, Hawaii. I'm currently a sophomore at Humboldt State University. I chose HSU because of the small class sizes. I find it easier to build strong relationships with my professors and maximize learning to my fullest capabilities. It also doesn't hurt that our campus borders a beautiful redwood forest.
Madeline Hoon. Major: Cellular and Molecular Biology. Minors: Chemistry and Psychology.
Hey everyone! My name is Maddie and I'm from Palmdale CA. I'm a sophomore here at HSU and I have loved all my time here. From the beyond friendly people to the amazingly supportive faculty, Humboldt has been nothing but good to me. This will be my second year as an orientation counselor and I'm very excited to share everything I enjoy about this campus with our incoming students.
Madylyn Tapia. Major: General Biology.
Hello everyone! My name is Madylyn Tapia, most people just call me Maddie though. I am currently a sophomore here at HSU; however, it is my first year attending Humboldt. I transferred from a larger school in Southern California. I am from Palmdale, California so the Humboldt environment is definitely a change but it is a change for the better. Humboldt State has so many wonderful opportunities to be taken advantage of and I am super excited to share them with all of you!
Feng Manyu Major: Finance.
My name Feng Manyu and I am from China. This is my second year at a university but this is my first year at HSU. I am so excited that I have this job; it is my first real job. It will enrich my life during my oversea experience. I remember when I arrived in Humboldt, I was afraid of a new environment and worried about my English. My HOP counselor led us and helped us a lot. As a member of HOP, I hope I can help other people in the same way.
Marilyn Liu. Major: International Studies with a concentration in Chinese Studies.
Hello everyone! My name is I love learning new languages and about different cultures. I also have a deep and passionate interest in visual arts. I'm trying to find a way to join the two worlds of International Studies and Art and see where it takes me. I recently became the club president for Humboldt State Campus Greens, signed up to volunteer with YES House, and joined the H.O.P family as a peer counselor; it is only my second semester here, so who knows what's next! There are so many wonderful things in store for me here in beautiful Humboldt, and it is such a gift to live among the magical trees and friendly people. Welcome to Hugs and Smiles University; I'm looking forward to meeting and getting to know you all!
Morgan Johnson Major: Biology (Marine)
Hello! My name is Morgan Johnson and I am originally from Pleasanton, Ca. I am a Marine Biology major here, this is my first year at HSU and so far I am absolutely loving it up here. All of my professors have been amazing, and last semester I got to go out on our school's Coral Sea Research Vessel. I've never felt so at home anywhere as I have here at HSU. Everyone I have met up here is so kind and compassionate, and the forest is absolutely breathtaking.
Sabrina Navarro. Major: Zoology. Minor: Art Studio.
Greetings, My name is I hail from Oceanside, CA (a little north of the city of San Diego). I transferred to Humboldt State 2 years ago and have been living the dream ever since. I am a program director running a volunteer group at Youth Educational services and a proud member of the Marching Lumberjacks. I enjoy crafting, fresh air, live music, and local food!
Tracy Gatumu. Major: Environmental Studies. Minor: French
Hey guys! I’m a freshman from Anaheim which is in sunny California.
The small classes, tight community, and the environment are what
attracted me to HSU. When I first applied at HSU I got a strong
feeling that something great awaited me here and great things have
happened. I’ve meet such great people, my views have changed, and I’ve
somewhat matured up. Teachers really do know you by name and they do
care for you individually. I’m having such a great time here and am so
excited to meet all the incoming freshmen. You’re making the right
decision to come to HSU!
Wendy Agyapong. Major: Biology (General)
Hello, I am currently a sophomore studying here at HSU. I was originally born in Italy and moved to the United States when I was 10 years of age. My parents settled in Los Angeles and I've lived there ever since. When I was applying for college, I was in search for a new and different environment to which I could also experience new and exciting things; Humboldt State was the best place for me to experience just that. But most importantly, I was attracted to the marvelous research opportunities available for science majors.
Will Culver III Major: Wildlife: Conservation Biology/Applied Vertebrate Ecology.
My name is Will and I am a transfer student from Orange County, CA. This is only my second semester at HSU! In my short time here I have already been afforded so many amazing opportunities, from becoming an HOP Peer Counselor to learning more about my role as a Native American in science through my involvement in INRSEP (Indian Natural Resource and Science Program). HSU is such an incredible school, and as I wake up to the immense natural beauty each morning, I could not possibly imagine attending anywhere else!
Yessica Rosales. Double major: French & Francophone Studies and International Studies with a focus in International Business.
I traveled to Humboldt State three years ago and I am thankful to say I have had a wonderful time. I am a HOP Counselor and I love that I get to share and help, motivate, and welcome new incoming students. I also work for the university’s Music Department as the student office assistant. I love both of my jobs, traveling, my family, my decision of coming to HSU, and friends.
Ziwei Wang Major: Art studio
My name is Ziwei and I am from Shanxi, China. Being an international student here in America, I feel extremely lucky and ambitious. When it comes to HSU, I enjoy being here a lot. This is my first year being an HOP Counselor I am also a Minister of the Propaganda Department of Chinese Students and Scholars Association.
I think the best thing about HOP is that it gives you a great chance to express yourself, and also teaches you how to help others. I learned and I grew from it.
HOP Office Staff
Banning Ramirez, HSU Ambassador Coordinator
My name is Banning Ramirez and I was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawai’i. I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication with an emphasis on Media Studies and a minor in Public Relations here at HSU. As well as being a student, I am an active member of the popular student-run radio station here on campus, KRFH. Even though I am thousands of miles away from home, I am lucky to learn and live within these beautiful redwood trees.
Jessie Lorge, HOP Student Counselor Coordinator
My name is Jessie Lorge and I am from Santa Rosa, CA. I am currently a junior at HSU working towards a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in exercise science as well as a minor in Spanish. This is my second year working with HOP and Admissions as a tour guide on campus. I get to dedicate my time outside of school to prospective students and people looking to go to the best college there is! I also spend a lot of time hoop dancing and going on hikes. Humboldt State University has something amazing to offer to everyone and we, as the HOP team, are here to help you find your niche and become academically stable during your first-year transition to college.
Marissa Mourer, Director, Orientation & Preview Programs
Masters: Library Science, 2010; Education, 2006
Bachelors:Journalism, 2002, Humboldt State University!!
One of the best decisions that I've ever made was to study at HSU as an undergraduate! After some globe-trotting, I love being back at HSU! It's a joy to work with outstanding student leaders, give back to a great university, and to walk through the woods to the beach after work each day.
