June 28^th, 2023 Welcome Kristen Viscarra | Graduate Communications Assistant

Kristen is a Phoenix native currently enrolled in at the University of Minnesota’s Counseling Education Program with the goal of becoming a licensed professional counselor and a school counselor. Kristen enjoys crocheting, reading, and slow running!

What is your job title, and what will you be doing?

Graduate Communications Assistant! I will be doing all things social media!

Tell us about your education and/or work experience prior to joining the MNCWTA.

Prior to MNCWTA, I was a Sleep Technician as a part of the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis at the UofM and worked for Meta as a research assistant on a wearable technology study. Last semester, I had a great time as section leader for an intro to Psychology Data Analysis class! Prior to enrolling in my School Counseling and Mental Health Counseling Master’s program, I was Dean of Students at a charter school in Arizona where I provided academic, behavior, and socioemotional support to students!

How long have you been working in your field?

One great month in communications so far but I have years of ~field experience~ in social media! I am using my research background and work with students and families to influence my posts.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

Using my creative brain while spreading information about important topics!

What are you most passionate about professionally?

Bringing data and research into Social Media!

What are you most passionate about personally?

Caring for my dog, Henry.

What are you surprisingly good at?

Finding cool new places in the Twin Cities to go explore!

What do you like to do outside of work?

Read books and walk around lakes!

What else should we know about you?

I will interview you if given the chance!! I love learning about what makes people tick and their opinions! Recently, I have been interviewing people in the office about their experiences in Child Welfare. Posts to come soon!