About Lisa Punelli

My role at Cal State San Marcos

I help students discover and connect with their passion.  This includes exploring interests, skills and values to determine what majors and careers are a good fit.   Once they choose a career, together we work on creating a plan for gaining experience.  Preparation for  internship and job search include the ‘nuts and bolts’ of informational interviewing, resume and cover letter creation, and interview preparation. Additionally, I present career workshops to classes, clubs and in our career center.  As the liaison for the College of Science and Math, I collaborate with faculty to provide career programming for students in these majors.

My Career Path

I was a variety of majors including undeclared, communication and sociology before I chose psychology. When I was a senior in college I had the opportunity to be a peer advisor for undeclared freshmen.  After this experience, I knew I wanted to be a counselor for college students.  I received a B.A. in psychology from the University of Arizona.  Next, I earned my M.A. in counseling with specialization in college student development from the University of San Diego.  Since then, I have been working in higher education in the areas of admissions, academic advising and career counseling.

In my Free Time…

I love reading, March Madness college basketball, trying out new restaurants, live music, photography and going to the beach and spending time with friends and family.

Rewards

Connecting with students and seeing them grow and develop personally, academically and professionally throughout their time in college. Helping students throughout the career development process and having the ability to be the bridge from school to work.

Words of Wisdom

You get out of college what you put into it.  Get involved.  There are so many campus organizations, there truly is something for everyone.  Take advantage of all the services on campus.  Gain career/internship experience while you are in school.