Introduction to the Team: Lana
Name - Lana
Role - Higher Education Coordinator
What is your role within MAPS and what decisions do you usually have to make?
Role: Higher Education Coordinator within MAPS
Co-leads the HMSA Wednesday site, supporting both academic programming and student engagement.
Designs and facilitates professional development programming, including resume workshops, study-skills coaching, and lesson plans grounded in real psychological research.
Works closely with 12-15 high school seniors, guiding them through the college application process (Common App, CSU, and UC systems).
Makes decisions based on student-identified needs, adjusting programming to focus on areas such as academics, college readiness, or personal development.
Coordinates academic support by assigning tutors in subjects like math, chemistry, and English as needed.
Uses tools like Google Forms to assess student goals and tailor quarterly programming accordingly.
Provides targeted support for financial aid navigation, including FAFSA completion and scholarship applications.
Develops students’ argumentative writing and critical thinking skills, particularly in linguistics and academic writing.
Collaborates with debate clubs and mock trial teams to strengthen students’ public speaking and reasoning abilities.
Helps match students with volunteers and tutors aligned with their intended majors, offering insight into college pathways and expectations.
Assists in planning and co-leading field trips and college visits, including an upcoming spring quarter college trip.
What makes this role challenging?
Entered the role feeling shy and out of place, especially since many members already had established relationships through MSA or prior volunteer experience.
Navigated uncertainty during the first two years at UCLA while searching for a sense of belonging within the MAPS community.
Initially lacked social familiarity (not having contacts or shared history), which made early collaboration feel intimidating.
Gradually found confidence and community through consistent engagement, mentorship, and participation in MAPS retreats.
Experienced personal growth through conversations about faith, identity, and shared values, ultimately finding a strong sense of grounding and support within the organization.
Ongoing project & suggested improvement
Current Project
Helping organize a field trip and art gallery event for students at Islah Academy.
Elementary and middle school students create art pieces that express their identities, which are then displayed in a gallery setting.
Volunteers attend the event to engage with students and celebrate their work.
Suggested Improvement / New Idea
Having a designated number of awards for the number of students participating in the art gallery
Ensures all students feel deserving of being celebrated and no one is left out
