For Nadia Suarez, academic advisor in the Online B.A. in Business Administration program at Cal State Fullerton’s College of Business and Economics, supporting students means more than helping them navigate degree requirements. It means understanding the many responsibilities they carry, connecting them with resources and offering encouragement along the way.
A First-Gen Background Provides Prep for Advising
Suarez graduated from UC Irvine in June 2025 with a double major in psychological science and criminology, law and society. As an undergraduate, she worked as a peer academic advisor, an experience that sparked her interest in academic advising and the many ways to help students succeed.
Her experience also deepened her commitment to supporting first-generation college students. As a former first-generation student herself now pursuing a master’s in clinical mental health counseling at CSUF, Suarez understands the challenges that can accompany navigating higher education.
“Many students in the online business program are the first in their family to attend college and are often balancing many responsibilities at the same time, including working full-time, parenting and caregiving,” she says. “The strength and tenacity of our students inspires me every day, and I’m passionate about supporting students’ dreams of completing a bachelor’s degree.”
Suarez joined the online business team last November and transitioned to her current role as an academic advisor in August. She now works with students in the online business program whose last names fall within Lp-Z, serving as their primary point of contact within the program.
Her support ranges from creating custom study plans and providing academic success coaching to simply being available when students need someone to listen. Suarez’s approach is informed by her counseling background and centers on understanding each student’s individual circumstances.
“I believe in being holistic, considering the unique needs of each student, and approaching my work with students with kindness and empathy,” Suarez says. “Students feel the most supported when they feel like they have someone on their side.”
The Benefits of Staying Connected
She also emphasizes connecting students with resources such as the Business Career Center and Business Tutoring Center. Her goal is to help students access the tools they need throughout their academic journey, from matriculation through graduation.
For students beginning the Online B.A. in Business Administration program, Suarez encourages early communication. Whether students need advising, help from a professor during office hours or tutoring, she recommends seeking assistance as soon as challenges arise.
“The sooner we intervene, the easier it is to turn a situation around,” she says.
Because online business courses are asynchronous, Suarez also recommends creating a consistent study schedule and maintaining a dedicated space for coursework. At the same time, she encourages students to make time for self-care, whether that means taking a walk, spending time with loved ones or enjoying a comforting, nutritious meal.
Finally, Suarez advises students to remember why they chose to pursue their degree.
“Classes in the Online Business program are rigorous and at times challenging,” she says. “During these moments, remembering the driving force behind your choice to earn a bachelor’s degree can be motivating and inspiring.”
For More Information or to Get Support
Learn more about the Online B.A. in Business Administration by reading our articles.
