Palouse Pathways Operations Specialist
The work we do for students and families at Palouse Pathways is supported by a small but mighty team of staff and volunteers. One of those dedicated staffers is Gulsima Young, Palouse Pathways Operations Specialist. Here’s a Q&A with Gulsima to help you get to know her better!
First, a little background: Gulsima grew up in Pullman and enjoyed being involved with Palouse Pathways throughout high school. She attended the University of Washington, where she earned degrees in Environmental Studies and Informatics. She also worked for the UW Campus Sustainability Fund, supporting student-led initiatives focused on environmental justice, social equity, and community resilience. After graduating, she received a Master of Public Affairs from Brown University.
What led you to get involved with Palouse Pathways as a high school student in Pullman?
I got involved with Palouse Pathways to learn about the range of college and financial aid options. Peggy [Jenkins] made the college search process enjoyable, and I liked how Palouse Pathways was focused on helping students find the right fit for them and their interests. I enjoyed attending the Returning Student Forum, scholarship and financial aid workshops, and SAT study groups.
What was the most valuable thing you learned from your experience with Palouse Pathways?
Although choosing your post-high school path is a big decision, you will have fantastic experiences, meet wonderful people, and learn so much no matter what you end up doing.
Tell us a little bit about the work you do at Palouse Pathways now.
As the Operations Specialist, I plan and host events, support the Scholars Program, and coordinate Launch Whitman – our newest effort to expand career and college preparation access.
What is Launch Whitman?
Launch Whitman is an initiative supported by LaunchNW, a Spokane-based organization that brings together community partners to ensure every child has access to career training. Launch Whitman works to expand support for higher education access and career preparation in Whitman County through assessing local needs, implementing pathways for progress, and building a thriving network of community organizations and leaders.
What advice do you have about figuring out which colleges would be the best fit for you?
The College Exploration Courses offered by Palouse Pathways provide excellent guidance for searching for colleges that fit your interests and needs. A great way to begin your college search is to create a list of what factors are most important to you (financial aid, school size, distance from home, major options, extracurriculars, sports, etc).
Tell us about a favorite college class and/or professor.
At UW, I took a public policy course titled Ethics, Power, and Leadership. It was a small, discussion-based class where we did lots of collaborative work. We learned how to assess policies and public programs, conduct stakeholder analysis, and develop recommendations to prioritize and enhance equity. The professor, Dr. Sebawit Bishu, was incredible and greatly expanded my understanding of policymaking and cultivating structural change.
Do you have any hobbies or special interests?
I really like cooking, reading, spending time outside, and listening to music.
Favorite band or musician?
Recently, I have been enjoying The Marías, Noname, Big Thief, and The Altons.
What’s a fun fact not many people know about you?
I am from Kazakhstan, and I hope to start learning Kazakh soon.
Thanks very much for all you do for Palouse Pathways, Gulsima! Or shall we say, “Ulken rakhmet!”