Student Research Assistants

The Student Equity Plan aims to engage in targeted, intentional, and race-conscious activities and interventions that support the closing of opportunity/equity gaps for the most impacted populations at Ventura College. In collaboration with the Student Equity Plan, the Student Research Assistants’ objective is to collect qualitative and quantitative data from the (VC) community by conducting surveys, interviews, and individualized group sessions. In efforts to bridge the gap and understand student needs, the Student Research Assistants take part in building authentic relationships with students in various forms. Some of these include; participation in campus events, community engagement efforts, and serving as college ambassadors. Committed to helping students navigate the resources on campus.

Meet the Team

Edwin Balam

Pronouns: He/Him
Languages: English and Spanish 
Major: Mechanical Engineering
About Me: I was born and raised in Oxnard, California and I am currently studying to get my degree in Mechanical Engineering. This is my second year at VC and I plan to transfer next spring. I hope to develop my skills by being able to communicate better with students and faculty.
Fun Fact: I love collecting Retro Games and playing them! I also enjoy traveling and watching Football, Go Pack Go!

Edwin Balam
Jacob Colasito

Pronouns: He/Him
Languages: English, Tagalog, Waray, learning Spanish
Major: Political Science
About Me: Jacob first began working with the Ventura College L.E.A.P division in September of 2023. He is currently pursuing a political science degree for transfer, learning languages, and building bridges with students through his involvement in ASVC. He is also a firm believer in an education system that is accessible for all and wishes to put himself in the right position to make these ends happen. In the future, he would like to become a lawyer, researcher, and a teacher.

Jacob Colasito
Noah Galtieri Turner

Pronouns: He/Him
Languages: English and Portuguese
Major: Zoology and Education
About Me: I started attending Ventura College in the Fall of 2021 that followed my family's move from the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area. I began full-time attendance after committing to Zoology alongside education with aspirations of professionally teaching the sciences and emphasizing the importance of natural conservation and appreciation. If all stays well, I would like to settle myself into the Australian Outback where I could volunteer my each and every hour to the preservation and propagation of the wonderful creatures. 

Fun Fact: My favorite place in Ventura County is Charismatic Creatures

Noah Leap
Kayleigh Martinez
Pronouns: She/Her/They
Languages: English & Learning Spanish
Major: Family, Community, & Human Development w/ Minor in Sociology
About Me: Kayleigh joined the L.E.A.P division in the Fall of 2023. As a Student Specialist, she is dedicated to enhancing the VC student experience through the collection of data and research in connection to the student equity plan. Before joining the L.E.A.P division, she earned her bachelor's degree at the University of Utah and plans on attending CSUCI for her master's degree in the Fall 2024 semester. She hopes to one day work in higher education and make the college experience more inclusive and equitable for students.
Fun Fact: I love spending my free time attending concerts with my best friends. If I'm not at a concert, I am most likely browsing the vinyl section at my local music store. My favorite music store to visit in Ventura is Salzer's!
 
Kayleigh Martinez
Manuel Munoz
Pronouns: He/Him
Languages: English and Spanish
Major: History
About Me: Manuel is dedicated to helping students navigate the resources Ventura College has to offer as a researcher. His knowledge and experience in the various social science disciplines of history, sociology, and psychology make him a great point of reference for students exploring these fields. In his free time, he enjoys watching films, painting, and playing soccer.
Fun Fact: My favorite place in Ventura County is the Ventura Pier and Boardwalk
 
photo
Isabella Palacios
Pronouns: She/Her
Languages: English
Major: Psychology
About Me: Isabella joined the L.E.A.P Division on Spring of 2024. She is dedicated to helping improve the experience on campus for all students. She plans to finish her general education courses at Ventura College and then transfer to a 4-year college. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new places with friends, and going to the movies.
Fun Fact: Isabella plays for the Ventura College Water Polo team.
 
Bella