Angelica Gil, Ed.D.

I attribute my success to the challenges that I confronted, and really my perseverance. I've always had a strong desire to be successful. I will also contribute my success to my family, because without them and their sacrifices, especially for my parents that made so many sacrifices. I wouldn't have had a chance to have access to education in general. I do come from immigrant parents, and they left everything behind to provide a better future for their children. And then lastly, I attribute my success to my amazing mentors. I've had really great mentors, or I would consider them my guardian angels, and they've been people that see me, that believe in me, and that saw my potential.

The best career advice I received was from a college professor who also became my mentor. Before graduating from graduate school he told me that it’d be important to “brand myself.” Your personal brand is your professional reputation—it's how people remember you, describe you, and decide whether to trust you with opportunities. For a young professional, building a strong personal brand means consistently showcasing your skills, values, expertise, and standing out from the competition. A clear, authentic brand helps you stand out in a competitive job market, attract employers, expand your network, and create opportunities that might not come through a résumé alone. In today's world, people often discover you before they meet you, so investing in your personal brand is an investment in your future career.

I encourage young women entering this industry to believe in their abilities, speak with confidence, and never stop learning. Build a strong personal brand by consistently demonstrating your skills, professionalism, and the value you bring. Seek out mentors, ask questions, embrace new challenges, and surround yourself with people who support your growth. Above all, stay authentic, remain true to yourself, and never forget where you started or the challenges you have overcome—they are the foundation of your success.

Higher education and career consulting are evolving rapidly as technology, workforce demands, and student expectations continue to change. One of the biggest challenges is helping students navigate an overwhelming number of educational and career options while preparing them for jobs that may not even exist yet. At the same time, this presents a tremendous opportunity to provide more personalized guidance using data, technology, and real-world career insights. The growing emphasis on skills-based hiring, lifelong learning, and career readiness allows consultants and educators, like me, to help students make informed decisions, develop in-demand skills, and build meaningful, adaptable careers in an ever-changing job market.

In my professional life, I value collaborating with people who have a growth mindset, lead with integrity, and are genuinely committed to making a positive impact. I enjoy working alongside individuals who approach challenges with optimism and believe in creating a better future through continuous learning and innovation. In my personal life, I prioritize maintaining a healthy balance between work and life, spending quality time with my family, and protecting my mental well-being. These values help me stay grounded, energized, and able to bring my best self to both my personal and professional commitments.