“Make the most of what the Rec Center has to offer you. You have the space to grow and gain whatever skills you want!”, says Sebastian Juarez Castellanos, who has been working at Campus Rec for all four years of his undergraduate career. Sebastian began as a freshman in the FLASH program at Member Services, and quickly moved up to the Member Services Cash handling Lead position. He is now handing over the position to new leads as he prepares to graduate this Spring.
Sebastian is graduating with a degree in Political Science, and hopes to work as a public servant in some capacity for his future career. In the meantime, however, he no longer needs to worry about his next job— because he already has one! As of just a few weeks ago, Sebastian graciously accepted his role as a Resident Director for PSU’s Office of Housing and Residence Life. He is perfect for this position, as he served as a Resident’s Assistant in the Ondine Dorm for three years. Sebastian explains that “[working as an RA] allowed me to connect to the on-campus life at PSU, given that we were moving out of the fully online year that we experienced throughout the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.”
Combined with his role at Campus Rec, Sebastian says he feels very grateful to have been able to connect with so many people throughout his time here. “My favorite part about having these two positions was how it allowed me to connect to so many different people,” he explains. From seeing the residents from his floor come in and use the Rec Center, to even having two of his residents begin working at CREC, it was very rewarding to see his impact on these spaces.
Not only has Sebastian been able to foster a great sense of community in all of the spaces he occupies, but he has also learned so many valuable skills that will help him as he takes on his new role. He reflects on his communication skills and how much they’ve improved in his time at Campus Rec. “I know what is expected of me, and the ProStaff are very upfront about what they need,” he says. “I like that we are all upfront about our strengths and weaknesses, so everyone can feel confident working here!”
When Sebastian isn’t working, studying, or hanging out with his residents, you’ll likely find him reading a book in the park, checking out new Portland restaurants, or catching a concert from one of his favorite artists. It is safe to say that Sebastian’s ever-optimistic attitude, friendly demeanor, and overall excitement for life serve as an inspiration to all of us to make the most out of every opportunity. We are beyond thankful to Sebastian and all that he has contributed to the Rec Center, and to PSU as a whole! Make sure to congratulate him if you see him around the facility, or soon on campus as the newest Resident Director!