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Maria is the Director of Undergraduate Programs at the Paul Merage School of Business at University of California, Irvine.

Maria is a collaborative, evidence-informed and student-centered leader with direct experience in administering student development opportunities related to diversity, equity and inclusion as well as academic advising development; and carries a proven track record of promoting equitable access and positive outcomes through collaborative partnerships that drive holistic support of our students. Committed to an inclusive student-centered culture and to creating a collaborative and diverse work environment.  Dedicated to a career based on integrity, compassion, and a strong desire to assist students in achieving their educational goals.

Her most current role as Director of University Advisement Center, Maria created a campus environment that supported student success through a collaborative process with Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Information Technology to create a holistic advising experience that integrated students’ curricular, co-curricular and career exploration.

Prior roles include Director at West Coast University, Ontario, Director of International and Intercultural Programs at California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), Director, Ethnic and Intercultural Services at Loyola Marymount University (LMU), Director of Institutional Research and Campus Diversity at University of La Verne, and Associate Dean at Concordia University, Irvine.

Maria has a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction - Adult Education (Kansas State University), has her Master of Science in Foundations in Adult, Occupational and Continuing Education (Kansas State University), and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Ponce, PR).  Maria enjoys reading, outdoor running, meditation and traveling.

Justin Javier is the Associate Director of Undergraduate Programs at The Paul Merage School of Business. Prior to joining the Merage School, he worked as a Senior Academic Counselor at UC San Diego Revelle College and Academic Counselor in the Department of Economics at UCLA. 

Justin graduated from UC San Diego with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry Cell Biology and San Diego State University with a Master of Arts in Postsecondary Educational Leadership with a Specialization in Student Affairs. He brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for the field of academic advising and higher education and hopes to empower the next generation of transformative Merage School student leaders.

Jamee Barrios is an Associate Director at the Paul Merage School of Business. Jamee joined Merage in 2017 as Programs Coordinator for the Fully Employed, Executive and Health Care Executive MBA programs. She transitioned to the Full Time MBA program in 2018 as the Admissions Coordinator. Prior to joining the Merage school, she worked in marketing, event planning, client service and customer service roles.

Jamee graduated from Arizona State University with a B.S. in Family and Human Development while working full time. This experience created a passion in supporting students who are first generation, working full time while pursuing an education. Jamee’s leadership skills empower her to support students and faculty in achieving success inside and out of the classroom.

Justin De Toro is an Academic Advisor at the Paul Merage School of Business. Before joining the Merage School, he worked as a Student Affairs Officer and an Administrative Specialist at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs where he helped launch the Public Affairs major.

Justin graduated from UCLA with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, and he brings over 5 years of professional experience in higher education, program management, and events. As a first-generation college graduate, he is passionate about working with students, supporting organizational excellence, and building a sense of community in a large university setting. He hopes to encourage students to think critically about their academic and professional goals and support them throughout their undergraduate experience at the Merage School.

Adaline Lee is an Academic Advisor at the Paul Merage School of Business. Before joining the Merage School, she served as an Advisor in the Academic Affairs department at the University of Washington, specifically working with undergraduate research students. She also brings experience in client marketing and program management.

Adaline graduated from the University of Washington with a B.A. in Interpersonal Communication and a minor in Education, Learning, and Societies. She is passionate about implementing DEIA principles and breaking down barriers to higher education access and opportunity. Adaline invests time in understanding the students' thought processes, environmental and interpersonal interactions, problem-solving abilities, and academic goals. This allows her to collaborate effectively with students in academic planning and exploration.

Major: Business Administration
Emphasis: Organization and Management
Minor: Psychological Science
Hometown: Fremont, CA

What I Like About Merage?

My favorite MGMT course is 102 with Professor Bergemann. I really enjoyed the topics we discussed in class and the assigned articles were very interesting to read. The final project was also very engaging with the topic my group chose.

My favorite part about Merage is our buildings. I love how there are many different study spots to choose from both indoors and outdoors. I also like the look of the tall glass windows that span the whole wall of SB1. The courtyard looks very pretty at night with the string lights.

Why I became a PAA?

I became a PAA because I want to give back the help I received as a first year from prior PAAs. Coming into UCI as an Undeclared major was a pretty stressful time for me. I knew I wanted to try to switch into business administration, but I had no clue where to start. As a PAA, I want to be able to provide the same help to students who might be as stressed out as I was.

Major: Business Administration
Emphasis: Marketing
Minor: Film and Media Studies
Hometown: Sacramento, CA

What I Like About Merage? 

My favorite upper-division core course is MGMT 191W - Business Communication! Not only is Professor Hite one of the most passionate instructors on the Merage campus, but she also gives engaging projects and hands-on assignments that immerse you in the world of business. You gain a ton of public speaking experience and learn written, oral, and professional skills that are applicable in the classroom, the workplace, and beyond.

My favorite part of Merage is the sense of community! All the students within Merage are always willing to offer help from advice on what class to take (and which to avoid) to resources for bagging your next internship to an ear to lend for a free therapy session. Our school also provides so many opportunities to get involved, make an impact, branch out of your comfort zone, and feel empowered in your personal and professional development. I've grown so much as a leader since my first day of freshman year and it honestly wouldn't have been possible without all the people, involvements, and experiences I've been able to have because of Merage!

Why I became a PAA?

I love helping others, connecting with the amazing people who make up our school's student body, and nerding out over a good schedule, so the PAA position brings all of my passions together while fostering my growth as both student and leader. As a returning PAA, I've honestly never had a job or role that's as fulfilling as answering a student's question, providing them with resources they never would have known about, or guiding them through their 4-year journey here on campus because you really see and feel the personal impact of your work!

Major: Business Administration  
Emphasis: Marketing, Organization and Management  
Minor: Digital Arts  

What I like about Merage: The easy access to in-person events and opportunities! So often do we get emails about events that anyone would be interested in, and it is very easy to RSVP and attend any event you like or want to try! 
 
Why I became a PAA: I remember trying to navigate college as a freshmen without much help; it was a complicated process, and I want to make sure my peers have an easier and more enjoyable experience when figuring out the ropes of college! 

Major: Business Administration  
Emphasis: Organization & Management and Marketing  
Minor or Double Major: Double Major in Education Sciences 
Hometown: Garden Grove, CA 

What I like About Merage?

How pretty it looks when the fairy lights are turned on at night and that we have our own Starbucks! But aside from that, Merage is such a welcoming community with so many opportunities to get involved - whether that be through MUSA or one of our business organizations. Everyone I've met has been extremely supportive and helpful, and it's such a safe space for me to grow both personally and professionally. It's hard to believe I'm already in my 4th year because I really don't want to graduate from this space, and I hope that convinces you just how amazing Merage (and UCI in general) is! Zot zot!  

Why I became a PAA?

Coming into college as a first-generation college student, I didn't have a lot of people to rely on whenever I had questions about courses or degree requirements. However, knowing that I could rely on the PAAs was always extremely reassuring, and I want to do the same for others. A little bit cheesy, but I knew from my first year that becoming a PAA was something I wanted to do at least once, so I am extremely grateful for this opportunity! I love working with students, and I hope that I can make their college journeys even just a little easier by offering the same level of guidance that I received. I'm super excited to get to know the Merage student body and make an impact on their experience at UCI!

Major: Business Administration 
Emphasis: Operations and Decision Technologies, Organization and Management, and Information Systems 
Hometown: Corona, California 

What I like about Merage: The Paul Merage School of Business isn't just a hub for rigorous academic endeavors—it's a microcosm of the global business landscape, sculpting the future of the digital age. What I truly appreciate is how our school consistently anticipates the confluence of technological shifts with business practices, ensuring that students are not just participants, but pioneers. The Merage experience seamlessly marries theory with applicability, giving me insights that are both profound and pragmatic. 
 
Why I became a PAA: My journey at UCI has been transformational, largely attributed to the guidance and support from individuals who were deeply invested in my growth. Becoming a Peer Academic Advisor is my avenue of paying that forward. This role allows me to guide fellow students academically while also providing a platform to connect with individuals from a myriad of backgrounds, stories, and aspirations. Engaging with such a wide range of perspectives not only enriches my understanding but also sharpens my consulting skills in practical situations. As I navigate my own aspirations toward a consulting career, this role presents a precious opportunity to cultivate essential skills and make a tangible difference within our community. 

Major: Business Administration 
Emphasis: Finance and Organization & Management 
Hometown: Cupertino, CA  

What I like About Merage?

My favorite course at Merage is MGMT 190 with Professor Askin. It's a very interactive class, and I enjoyed learning and applying the concepts that he taught. My favorite part about Merage is how eager everyone is to help you, regardless if they are a student or a faculty member. Everyone there genuinely wants to help you succeed, and I couldn't be more thankful for that!  
 

Why I became a PAA?

I wanted to give back to a community that was so willing to help me. When I came to UCI as a transfer student, I was so lost and stressed. I didn't know what I was doing, and yet I felt like I had so much to do. As a PAA, having gone through those struggles, I want to be able to provide help to the students who felt just as lost as I did.  

Major: Business Administration 
Emphasis: Concentration in Accounting 
Minor: International Studies 
Hometown: Roseville, CA

What I Like About Merage?

My favorite thing about Merage is the students that I surround myself with and learn from. I am lucky enough to brush shoulders against the changemakers of tomorrow who are already involved with their own careers, side businesses, and internships with top level companies. When I was in high school, though I loved being able to learn from the teachers, the competitive environment didn’t challenge me enough. Not only do I feel challenged at Merage to think more intentionally, but I feel inspired by my peers to dream bigger. 
 

Why I became a PAA?

I have decided to become a Peer Academic Advisor as the next big step in my college experience to immerse myself deeper into the Merage community, help my fellow students, and build my connections to the opportunities available in college. I am thrilled to be a part of arranging programs meant to help students. I have had such a positive and impactful experience from prior Academic Advisors, and I hope to carry on their impact in this position.