Transition Coordinator/Teaching Staff at Seattle Urban Academy

Emmanuel MancillaTransition Coordinator/Teaching Staff at Seattle Urban Academy

Tacoma, Washington

Sociology major 2013

With a background in sociology, Mancilla enjoys walking alongside youth as they try to figure out who they are and what they are called to do. One of his responsibilities as the transition coordinator is to work with students in creating a post-secondary education plan.

How does your time at SPU connect to the work you’re doing today?

At SPU I learned the importance of telling your story. I am constantly telling our young people how important it is to tell their story; to own the many aspects of life that they have had to endure, because those moments are what makes them and their stories unique.

Who made a difference in your SPU education?

Susan Okamoto Lane, among other faculty and staff, is someone who made a huge difference in my SPU education. She believed in my leadership ability and constantly encouraged me to seek out more opportunities where I could continue to grow. She encouraged me to be the president of SPU’s Spanish and Latino club, to run for SPU’s student government first vice president of intercultural affairs, go on a SPRINT trip to Brazil, create a three-day Reconciliation Summit, help plan Early Connections, graduate on time when I decided to change my majors at the last minute, and the list could go on. Susan was someone who was always, beginning the minute I walked on campus.

What advice do you have for students about life after graduation?

The advice I would give to current SPU students about life after graduation is to be patient. It’s important to not get caught up in the things you “should” be doing. Instead be patient in order to allow the space for God to really do his work. Be patient and have faith in God’s work.

 

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