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. 3670Omar Sanchez
Outreach Coordinator
My name is Omar Sanchez. I am a first-generation Latino. I recently received my master’s degree from San Diego State University in Education with an emphasis in Counseling. As a transfer student, I had the opportunity to earn my AA degree from Mira Costa College and earn my bachelor's degree from California State University Northridge.
Working in higher education has been an amazing experience. It has allowed me to connect with students, listen to their stories, and be a part of their educational journey. Seeing our student's achieve their educational goals has been the most rewarding part while working in higher education.
Contact Information
Email: osanchez@palomar.edu Phone: (760) 744-1150, Ext. 3678
Counseling 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. 2761Isabella 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!