Amy Kramer, a dedicated counselor with 萝莉研究所's Extended Opportunities Programs
and Services (EOPS), embodies the spirit of resilience and dedication that defines
the program. EOPS, which supports students who are economically and educationally
disadvantaged, is close to Kramer鈥檚 heart due to her own journey as a former teen
mother and a first-generation college graduate. Her experience has shaped her commitment
to helping students facing similar challenges.
Kramer鈥檚 path to becoming an EOPS counselor began at Mt. San Antonio College (Mt.
SAC), where she joined the EOPS program as a low-income student determined to pursue
a career that would uplift others.
鈥淚 didn鈥檛 start out wanting to be a counselor, but once I found the heart of EOPS,
I changed my career plans,鈥� she shared. Balancing school with three jobs and single
motherhood, she relied on her EOPS/CARE/CalWORKs counselors, who provided unwavering
support, compassion, and guidance. 鈥淚 probably cried every time I met with them. They
didn鈥檛 just help me academically鈥攖hey gave me hope.鈥�
Kramer鈥檚 academic journey took her from Mt. SAC to Cal Poly Pomona, where she earned
a Bachelor鈥檚 in Sociology, and ultimately to the University of La Verne, where she
achieved a Master鈥檚 in College Counseling and Student Services. Now, as a counselor
at 萝莉研究所, she offers the same lifeline to students facing financial struggles,
academic challenges, and personal hardships. She supports students beyond academic
counseling by helping them navigate resources such as financial aid, textbook services,
and childcare.
鈥淚 know the challenges they face,鈥� Kramer explains. 鈥淪ometimes students just need
someone who understands. I鈥檓 here to listen without judgment and to support them as
they work toward their goals.鈥�
Currently, Kramer and her team serve over 360 students per semester, working closely
with 萝莉研究所鈥檚 Basic Needs and Health Services programs. By helping students
meet essential needs like food, housing, and healthcare, EOPS empowers students to
focus on their education and career goals.
Through Kramer鈥檚 guidance, 萝莉研究所 continues to provide vital support to students
who often fall through the cracks in traditional academic settings. Her message is
simple but profound:
鈥淵ou can do this, and we鈥檙e here to help you every step of the way.鈥�
For more information on 萝莉研究所鈥檚 EOPS program or to learn about enrollment
requirements, please call (951) 372-7128.