Meet the team

WSU Vancouver Office of Admissions

These admissions counselors specialize in working with first-year and transfer college students and are passionate about their work. They wake up every morning thinking of ways they can help you achieve your goals through becoming a VanCoug.

Laura Arellano-Karki

Admissions Counselor

Email: laura.arellano@wsu.edu
Call or text: 360-727-0604

Laura Arellano-Karki

Jocelin Gallardo

Admissions Counselor

Email: jocelin.gallardo@wsu.edu
Call or text: 360-727-0646

Jocelin Gallardo

Kim Hiatt

Lead Admissions Counselor

Email: hiattk@wsu.edu
Call or text: 360-342-9017

Kim Hiatt

Maura Schaefer

Admissions Counselor

Email: maura.schaefer@wsu.edu
Call or text: 360-369-3347

Maura Schaefer

Spencer Vaughn

Admissions Counselor

Email: spencer.vaughn@wsu.edu
Call or text: 360-727-0527

Spencer Vaughn

Jason Yi

Campus Director of Admissions

Email: jason.yi@wsu.edu
Call or text: 360-727-0481

Jason Yi

Student Ambassadors

Molly Hope

Lead Student Ambassador

I transferred to WSU Vancouver after completing my associate degree through the Running Start program at Clark College. After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in the sports industry, specifically in hockey. This is my first year as a student ambassador, and I’m excited to help fellow students feel welcome on campus.

I chose WSU Vancouver because it’s close to home and offers smaller class sizes while still providing access to the resources of the greater WSU system. Although I’ve only lived in Washington for a few years after moving from California, I’ve come to appreciate this community and wasn’t ready to leave it for school just yet.

When I’m not studying, you can find me reading, crocheting or spending time with my dog. Go Cougs!

Molly Hope

Kelsie Ramirez

Student Ambassador

I’m interested in pursuing research and earning a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. That career can look different for everyone, but I’m specifically interested in working with kids. I believe young minds should be supported and nurtured in the best ways possible. To enhance my career opportunities, I’m involved in a research lab with several professors on campus and work with children outside of school.

I chose WSU Vancouver because of the undergraduate research opportunities, and it has absolutely lived up to that.

Outside of school and research, I love to play soccer, cook and binge TV shows. If you see me on campus, say hi!

Kelsie Ramirez

Emma Therkildsen

Student Ambassador

I’m a transfer student from Highline College, and I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in experimental psychology.

I chose WSU Vancouver because it’s close to home, has a strong academic reputation and is a beautiful campus.

Fun facts about me: I played college soccer, I love to write music and I’m from New Mexico.

Emma Therkildsen

Khiara Thomas

Student Ambassador

I plan to use my degree to work in education as a middle or high school history teacher. I hope to inspire students to love history and learn from those who came before us.

I chose WSU Vancouver because of its small campus feel and large university resources. This campus offers many opportunities to shine, from scholarships to research projects to art exhibits. There are chances for students in all majors to stand out.

As a first-generation Filipino American student, I’ve found that the supportive staff and student body make WSU Vancouver feel like home. Over the past few years, I’ve met so many people and professors who have positively impacted my personal and academic journey. I’m stoked to showcase our lovely campus and help prospective students imagine their place in our community.

Khiara Thomas



Ready to learn more? Connect with us today!