Learn more about Family and Human Services program alumna Talia Cordova, '24, through our Alumni Spotlight series.
It may be cliché, but it really is true; connecting with your instructors and peers is one of the most helpful things you can do during your undergraduate experience! – Talia Cordova
Meet Talia Cordova, '24, an outstanding Family and Human Services (FHS) alumna. Drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of the FHS program, Talia valued the opportunity to explore a wide range of interests while gaining a strong foundation in both the theoretical and applied aspects of the helping profession.
After graduating, she began working as a Research Assistant at the Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health. She works to support projects focused on youth mental health literacy, transdiagnostic mental health treatments, socio-emotional learning, digital media use, and sleep. Talia's role spans participant outreach and retention, quality assurance, and study development and implementation.
Research and Direct Services courses that taught her everything from technical skills like data analysis or interpersonal skills continue to inform her daily work. Talia encourages current students to connect with their professors, GE's, and peers as they are a valuable resource in and out of the program.
Why did you choose the Family and Human Services program?
I chose the FHS program because the interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum allowed me to explore my varied and intersecting interests, ultimately providing and comprehensive education in both the theoretical and applied aspects of the helping profession. I appreciate how the program combines exploration of sociological theories, behavioral and development psychology, ethics, research methods, and applied human services skills.
What has your career path looked like since graduation?
A few months after graduation I began a role as a Research Assistant at the Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health. I collaborate on several projects related to youth mental health literacy, transdiagnostic mental health treatments, socio-emotional learning, digital media use, and sleep. I assist two research labs with a range of tasks, including participant outreach and retention, quality assurance, and study development and implementation.
What did you learn in the program that you found most valuable in preparing for your career?
Research courses in the FHS program taught me many valuable lessons, from technical skills, like data analysis, to interpersonal skills, like how to collaborate cooperatively with others. Although I am not currently in a direct services role, the Direct Service Intensive Track courses in the FHS program have also been integral to helping me understand the contexts, such as schools and therapy practices, in which the interventions I work on as an Research Assistant are being implemented.
If you had one piece of advice for current FHS undergrads, what would it be?
It may be cliché, but it really is true; connecting with your instructors and peers is one of the most helpful things you can do during your undergraduate experience! Speaking to my professors and GEs who have already navigated many of the professional stages and dilemmas that I am just beginning to experience has been hugely influential in shaping my path. The questions students navigate during undergrad, especially the question of “what’s next?” can be daunting to answer. Making the most of the amazing mentors and advising resources you have access to through the Family and Human Services program and the College of Education can alleviate stress and help you feel empowered and excited to take on new experiences post-grad!