Melissa Zanzi

Director

MGIDDENS@CALPOLY.EDU

WORK CELL Phone: (805) 503-0525

OFFICE PHONE: (805) 756-5128

I am a two-time Cal Poly graduate, having completed my B.S. in Psychology and M.S. in Higher Education Counseling & Student Affairs here. I have also had the absolute pleasure of working with our Upward Bound students since 2016. It has been amazing to see what our students accomplish each year and the different directions that they choose to go college and career-wise. I love the work we do, the population that we serve, and most importantly, helping our students achieve their goals! I am originally from San Jose, but love being so close to the beach here in San Luis Obispo - though I do miss attending San Jose Sharks hockey games.

Jessica Lerena Zarate

Program Coordinator

JLERENAZ@CALPOLY.EDU

WORK CELL Phone:(805)503-8272

OFFICE PHONE:(805)756-5108

I am a first-generation college student who started my educational journey at Allan Hancock College, transferred to Cal Poly SLO, and earned a B.A in Sociology with a concentration in Social Services. As a high school student, I had the opportunity to be a part of Upward Bound, which greatly impacted my development. Throughout my time in college, I had the opportunity to work with students of all ages, and this experience helped me realize how much I enjoy working with high school students. Having gone through similar challenges as these students, I am passionate about helping them navigate and overcome these obstacles and help them achieve their academic and personal goals! I love what Upward Bound stands for, and being part of the program is incredibly rewarding.

Maritza Reyes Leon

Administrative Support Assistant

MAREYESL@CALPOLY.EDU

I am a Cal Poly graduate, with a Bachelors of Art in Spanish & a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I was raised in Santa Maria and have been in the central coast my whole life. I'm very excited to continue my work with Upward Bound as I'm also A UB alumni myself. Working for the program has been very rewarding in seeing what students decide to do after High School and providing that support to them. I enjoy exploring National Parks and next on my list is Zion National Park!