Meet Assistant Director of Enrollment Services Tracy Diesslin

Tracy Diesslin knows what it’s like to change career paths. Having spent time in the Peace Corps working with youth in Nicaragua and later teaching in the K-12 school system in Massachusetts, it wasn’t until years later that she realized her true passion was in higher education. So, when she relocated to Northern California, she found a new career at UC Davis, and now works helping others advance their careers or start a completely new one. 

As the assistant director of Enrollment Services at UC Davis CPE, Tracy brings nearly 10 years of experience advising students to her role. “I’ve been helping reentry students who have some college but no degree navigate returning to school and finishing what they started,” said Tracy. “It’s been extremely gratifying.” 

What are you most looking forward to in your position at CPE? 

I’m really looking forward to getting to know prospective students and aligning their interests with some of the best certificate programs there are to advance their careers or change it entirely. 

How can you help students overcome obstacles to pursuing their education? 

I think a lot of times students don’t know where to get started, particularly those who have some college, but no degree. It can be challenging to juggle work and family and pursue your own educational and career goals. I can help provide an outside perspective on how to tackle their education while also maintaining all the other roles and responsibilities they have on their plates. 

When should someone reach out to an enrollment coach? 

There may be options out there that you don’t even know exist. Coaches are privy to the abundance of programs and can talk through those options with you. Another advantage to meeting with a coach is to get the process started and knowing what to expect as a learner. 

What personal experience do you bring to your role? 

I have had some incredible mentors throughout my career and opportunities to take professional development courses. I can say that the networks I formed have been extremely valuable. In this labor market, it’s critical to have the means to grow professionally. What I love about our programs is that they allow you to build relationships with peers in your industry.