Program Staff
Riham Mathieu
Project Director
I am a proud first-generation student. I received a Master's in Education with an emphasis in Counseling and Leadership from Point Loma Nazarene and a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University. I am most passionate about uplifting students that come from disadvantaged backgrounds and helping students push through barriers to provide equitable opportunities. My family immigrated from Egypt when I was in middle school, and I relied on programs like TRIO to get to where I am today. I am forever grateful for the support and I want to provide the same opportunities to more students. In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors, spending time with my family and dog and going to concerts.
Contact Information
Email: rmathieu@palomar.edu Phone: (760) 744-1150, Ext. 3670
Janai Torres
I am a first-generation college student. I previously attended Mira Costa College and received an AA in Liberal Arts. I will graduate this Spring with a BA in Sociology. I plan to further my education at a graduate school in the future. I have a deep love for education and learning. I am passionate about assisting students in their academic journeys and providing them with the resources they need to succeed. I have had amazing experiences throughout college, and I hope to provide the same experience for the students I interact with. In my free time I spend time with my family, husband and friends. I love going for walks by the beach, thrifting and trying out new coffee shops.
Contact Information
Email: jtorres@palomar.edu Phone: (760) 744-1150, Ext. 2781Counseling Staff
Jamila Schmidt
Counselor
I'm a community college transfer student. I started at the local community college where I grew up, moved and completed my requirements at Grossmont College. After many hiccups, I successfully transferred to SDSU where I received my BA in Sociology and MA in Education. I'm a first- generation college student which is why working with TRIO Student Support Services is my passion. I love working with students and helping them navigate their educational journey, and encouraging and supporting them through the trials that come along with pursuing higher education.
Contact Information
Email: jschmidt@palomar.edu Phone: (760) 744-1150, Ext. 2761
Isabella Feldman
Counselor
I am a previous Palomar College TRIO/SSS student. I transferred to CSUSM, and then SDSU for graduate school. I understand the journey of being a community college student and then transitioning to higher education. It is not always easy, but with the right programs and guidance it can be done. Therefore, I love the TRIO/SSS program; it works! We have helped numerous people accomplish their goals and become part of the program's family. I love everyone I work with, and could have not accomplished my own goals, without the help of TRIO/SSS. On my free time, I love watching movies and love exploring different cultural foods. I welcome different cultures and traditions and have had students bring me authentic foods from their culture. I love staying educated on family traditions, and welcome new learning opportunities. I'm a huge animal lover and dogs are my favorite. I love the way a dog will bond to their owner and miss them when they are gone. I even welcome animals into my office. Anyone or any animal that comes into the TRIO/SSS office, will become part of my work family!
Contact Information
Email: ifeldman@palomar.edu Phone: (760) 744-1150, Ext. 2761Student Staff
Nallely Olivorio
Student Ambassador
I am a first-generation Latina college student. In the short time that I have been attending Palomar College, I have truly appreciated the resources that they have been able to provide me with during my journey. Some quick knowledge about who I am is that I am Mexican by my mother's side and Salvadorian by my father. I am also my brothers' only sister and my parents' only daughter. In my spare time, I value spending time with my family. The constant devotion and encouragement that my family provides me with has been my biggest motivation to finish my college studies. In terms of education, my objective is to be able to transfer to a 4-year institution and pursue a nursing major. I am a TRIO SSS and Palomar Promise student as well, and by being on the TRIO SSS staff, I intend to contribute a student's perspective to the program.