Jahnissi Tirado
Title: Admissions counselor
E-mail: tiradoj@vcu.edu
Responsibilities: Meeting with prospective students and their families, conducting on-campus tours, attending college fairs and visiting high schools, staff adviser to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions student ambassadors, reviewing student applications, and much more.
Counselor region: Maryland
High school: Hayfield Secondary School in Alexandria, Va.
College: Virginia Commonwealth University, Bachelor of Arts in English
About the Office of Undergraduate Admissions
What brought you to VCU?
It was the ability to move away from home without being too far. Also, there were a lot of opportunities for me to grow as a person and pursue my higher education.
What do you enjoy most about meeting prospective VCU students?
Being able to share my experience as an undergraduate with them and explaining that VCU is more than just an education, but an experience of the real world in decision-making responsibilities and exposure to new ideas.
What’s one thing you don’t travel without?
My VCU blanket. Not only do I show school pride but it’s my safety.
Best part of your job:
Doing a job that I have been doing since an undergraduate. VCU became a major part in my life due to my involvement in student organizations and office work. The difference now is that it’s a full-time job.
What’s your favorite place on campus?
The front steps of the President’s House. It’s close to one of the busy intersections of campus, but far enough that it’s not a part of the traffic.
About me
What are you reading right now?
“Hijas Americanas: Beauty, Body Image, and Growing Up Latina” by Rosie Molinary.
What’s on your iPod?
A mix of everything. Yes, I do mean everything — trance, hip-hop, reggaeton, salsa, alternative, country, new age, etc.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
A teacher or a lawyer. I kind of like to talk … a lot.
What do you order at Starbucks?
Grande chai with a double shot of vanilla and whipped cream, or hot chocolate with whipped cream.
Who inspires you?
My mami inspires me to be more than what society wants me to be. She pushes me to challenge myself and see beyond reality.
