Influential Woman · Higher Education

Susana Venegas

Career Counselor, Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine

Las Cruces, NM 88001

Her Story

About Susana

I have been in higher education for as long as I remember, and in the medical field specifically for four years. I started as an IT person, working with faculty to develop online courses. From there, I became a learning management administrator, continuing to develop courses, and then had the opportunity to become an educational specialist, working closely with students. Now, as a Career Counselor at Burrell College for the past year, I'm in charge of first and second year medical students, meeting with them about different specialties and opportunities. I guide them through the main requirements of different specialties by asking them questions like a survey to know more about their backgrounds and interests, then providing feedback on what they need to work on, whether it's research or community service. I really enjoy helping students, faculty, and staff with technology. I love technology and have had the opportunity to develop new changes, creating new ways to collect data and provide information to students in a better and easier way. My most notable professional achievement is that I never stop learning. I try every day, or at least once a week, to learn something new about the specialty, about the students, about technology, and how I can improve the resources for the students.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Susana

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to never stopping learning and facing challenges with a positive attitude every day. Everything I have accomplished and the position I have so far have involved facing challenges, learning, and being positive every day. I'm proud of myself for everything I have accomplished, and I want to show my kids that I have grown and achieved the position I have through these challenges and continuous learning.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Don't compare yourself to others. Timelines and career paths are rarely linear.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

I keep telling the students to take one day at a time and to always educate themselves on anything that interests them. I encourage them to research before they make a decision. Please don't overwhelm, and keep learning and growing at a pace that allows you to do a good job.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

I would say everything is evolving very quickly, especially among the younger generations. I think it has been an adjustment for both my generation and the younger generation, as we often have different perspectives and communication styles. It’s important to approach those differences with respect, openness, and a willingness to learn from one another.

Social media and emerging technology platforms can also be challenging to keep up with, but they have become such an important part of communication and professional development. I’m making an effort to learn more about these platforms so I can better understand how to use them effectively and guide students in using them to their advantage.

For me, it’s really about bridging the generational gap, staying current with evolving technology and communication styles, and continuing to grow so I can better support and connect with students.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values that are most important to me in both my professional and personal life are respect, empathy, and professionalism. I believe respect creates meaningful relationships and fosters an environment where people feel valued and heard. Empathy allows me to understand and connect with others, helping me provide support and guidance with compassion. Professionalism is equally important, as it reflects integrity, accountability, and a commitment to maintaining high standards in my work and interactions with others. These values guide the way I communicate, build relationships, and approach both personal and professional responsibilities.

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