Her Story
About Estella
Estella Armenta is an Academic Program Specialist in the Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Hub at Wichita State University, where she helps connect undergraduate students with faculty-mentored research opportunities. She has built her career around student success, academic engagement, and creating accessible pathways for students to participate in research and creative activities. In her role, she has helped develop initiatives such as the Connect Database, Research Week, and Research Mixer, expanding awareness of undergraduate research opportunities across the university.
Estella earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice and a certificate in Community Psychology from Wichita State University in 2023. She later earned a master’s degree in Educational Psychology on the Higher Education Student Affairs track from Wichita State University in 2026. Her professional experience also includes work in student organizations, supplemental instruction, community outreach, and public health, giving her a broad perspective on student development and community engagement. During her college years, she received a research award and was recognized as Sister of the Year within her sorority.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Estella is passionate about supporting causes that raise awareness of domestic violence, sexual assault, immigration, the foster care system, and the experiences of first-generation students. She is particularly proud of increasing awareness of her office and creating opportunities that help students discover the value of research and higher education. A competitive swimmer for 11 years, she brings the same discipline, persistence, and commitment to growth into her professional life, while crediting her loved ones, mentors, and advisors for recognizing her potential and encouraging her development as a student affairs professional.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Estella
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my loved ones and advisors who saw that I was capable even when I didn't see it.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to leave work at work because I am not my job, and to stop taking things personally. I learned this at a conference, and it really changed my perspective. It reminded me to separate my professional responsibilities from my personal identity, maintain healthy boundaries, and not let workplace challenges define how I see myself.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Negotiate your pay. Take advantage of professional benefits like tuition assistance, continuing education and conferences. Start with your own university you graduated from and work your way up. Don't stay in one position for too long and know your worth.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is securing funding due to federal government budget cuts and state budget issues. The biggest opportunity is innovation in research, with new ideas coming up all the time, and personally climbing the ladder toward a PhD.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, doing the best that you can given your circumstances, and loyalty, though in the job market you should also look for better positions if unhappy.
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