From student worker to graduate program manager: Fernanda Quiroz’s path of service at ASU

Since joining Arizona State University's School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning in 2021 as a student worker, Fernanda Quiroz has built her career with a strong commitment to supporting students at every stage of their academic journey.

In the years that have followed her onboaring, Quiroz has progressed through several roles supporting graduate programs, building expertise in admissions, advising and program operations. 

Today, Quiroz, an ASU alumna who earned a bachelor’s degree in global studies with a minor in German in 2018,  serves as graduate program manager, overseeing graduate admissions and student support operations while supervising professional staff. In her role, she helps ensure clarity and consistency across the school's graduate programs and supports the school’s mission to prepare students for impactful careers in geography, urban planning and geographic information science.

In the below Q&A, Fernanda shares more about her path to the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning and the work that motivates her.

Note: This interview has been lightly edited for style and brevity.

Question: What led you to ASU and the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning, and how did your career path bring you to this point?

Answer: I joined the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning in summer 2021 when I decided to return to ASU. The university already felt familiar after working in several departments as a student and later in a professional role supporting a research project following my undergraduate studies. Those experiences gave me a strong foundation in administrative and organizational work, even though I did not initially envision a long-term career in higher education.

I began at (the school) as a student worker and after one semester transitioned into a management intern role with the graduate programs team. From there, I moved into staff roles supporting graduate programs, gradually shifting from admissions-focused work to student advising.

In my current role as graduate program manager, I oversee graduate admissions and student support operations while supervising professional staff. While I did not initially envision a career in higher education administration, the work has been deeply rewarding, and I take pride in contributing to systems that help make graduate education more structured, transparent and supportive.

Q: How does your new role align with your professional passions and strengths? What are you most excited to focus on?

A: I have always valued learning, growth and continuous improvement, which evolved into an interest in supporting others as they navigate their academic paths. Graduate education can be complex and demanding, and I am motivated by the opportunity to help make those processes clearer and more approachable for students.

This role allows me to combine my strengths in organization, policy interpretation and relationship building with direct support for students and faculty. I value being a consistent and reliable point of contact, helping individuals understand expectations, plan next steps and feel supported throughout graduate school. Providing both structure and guidance is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work.

Q: What does success look like in this role for you and for the students and faculty you support?

A: Success looks like clarity and trust. When students feel confident in their academic paths, and faculty can rely on consistent, well-structured processes, that is a meaningful outcome. On a team level, success also means fostering growth, collaboration and shared understanding so we can continue improving how we support our graduate community.

Q: Can you share a meaningful moment from your time at the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning so far?

A: One of the most meaningful experiences has been shifting from completing tasks to taking on a broader sense of responsibility for the people and programs I support. I now think more intentionally about how policies are communicated and how guidance can shape students’ experiences and decisions in moments of uncertainty.

Q: What goals or initiatives are you looking forward to in the coming year?

A: I am focused on continuing staff development and strengthening our team’s advising capacity to improve consistency, clarity and timeliness across programs. As advising coverage becomes more stable, I am eager to explore ways to expand our support, identify new areas for improvement and continue evolving our services alongside the growth of our graduate programs.

Q: Outside of work, what energizes you?

A: I enjoy staying active, prioritizing both physical and mental well-being, and exploring creative outlets like embroidery and learning new skills. Spending time with my family, my partner Alex and our pets is one of the best ways I recharge and maintain balance.

Q: Is there a mentor, colleague or community member who has inspired your work at the school?

A: I have been fortunate to work with individuals who are generous with their guidance and support. My supervisor, Christopher Clanahan, assistant director of graduate programs, has (offered) encouragement and constructive challenges that have helped me grow professionally and step into leadership with confidence. I am also grateful to Beverly Davis, our undergraduate academic advising manager, who has been an invaluable resource and sounding board, always willing to share her knowledge and perspective.