Behind the Scenes: Shantel Palacio
By Andy Tew, Staff Writer
What is your job here?

I am the Area Coordinator of the social dorms.

What do you like about it?

I like being able to apply research principles that I’ve studied as a Communication major in college. And I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by a wonderful staff of smart and talented Resident Counselors! But one of the coolest perks of my job is that I don’t have traditional work hours. It’s great sleeping in some days but I make up for it during nights when I am on call.

What did you do before you worked here?

I did west coast recruitment as an Admissions Counselor for a university in New York City.

Who are some of your favorite music groups/artists?

Shakira, Matchbox 20, Vicente Fernandez, Nelly Furtado, Ne-yo, Lupe Fiasco, Jay-Z, Aaliyah, Alicia Keys, Robin Thicke, Paramore...the list goes on! I love most music, especially anything I can dance to (but don’t tell anyone that I’m not a great dancer).

Talk about where you’re from.

I am from Brooklyn, New York! New York is full of arts, entertainment, culture... it’s great because there’s always something to do, even when there is nothing to do!

Can you talk a little bit about your family?

I have a very close family. We enjoy spending time together and are constantly playing jokes on each other. My retired father is full of life and usually keeps the fun going in my household with his infamous corny jokes. My mother is a school psychologist, and I’m the youngest of all girls. In my home, it’s definitely true that the youngest is the most cosseted!

Does your family have any traditions?

One of my favorite traditions is getting together for an amazing Thanksgiving meal. I’m counting down the days!

What do you like to do when you’re not at work? What are you passionate about?

I am happy that Amherst has Univision because I love watching telenovelas. When I’m not watching “Fuego en la Sangre,” I spend time writing stories and poetry.

What is something interesting about you that not many people know?

I love traveling. I went to Europe for the first time as a German Youth Ambassador and studied abroad in China.

What is your favorite food? Why?

My family is from Central America so I love home cooked Latin America food!

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

My favorite superhero was Rogue from X-men (the cartoon, not the movie) so I guess I’d like her power.

What is one of your proudest achievements?

I am definitely proud of graduating from college and getting my diploma early!

What advice would you give to a college student?

College is where you learn a lot about who you are. Work hard, be true to yourself and learn from all of these experiences.

Issue 10, Submitted 2008-11-11 22:45:23