Team
Welcome, Robert Hollenbeck
Administrative Assistant II, Los Banos Campus
What is your role at Merced College?
As part of the Los Banos Campus, my role includes supporting the newly established Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Program, where I facilitate interactions that best support our new students, faculty, staff, and our emerging equipment needs, as well as assisting with preparations for our WE Will! grant requirements and quarterly reports.
What part of your job do you enjoy most?
The EMT Program is in a unique position to propel students forward within the healthcare field, and provide immediate success that bolsters both their confidence and their leadership capabilities. I find it greatly satisfying to be able to directly observe and assist in this process, as I get to build positive relationships with each student, thus fostering a strong sense of community.
Tell us about yourself. What brought you to Merced College?
After exploring the world while living abroad, I knew it was time to return to California and establish a career, which begins with a solid education. I was fortunate to have family in the area, which facilitated the connection with Merced College. So in a way, I lucked into such a positive and rewarding experience with Merced College that not only established a worthwhile career path, but also my journey toward an education.
How do you see your work or your role evolving in the next few years?
As I continue furthering my education, my desire would be to facilitate and encourage a healthy evolution of the EMT Program with our current faculty and staff. This would include supporting additional cohorts, community partners (fire, police, hospitals, and ambulance services), and the EMS (Emergency Medical Services) training scenarios at the Los Banos Campus, as well as the potential expansion into subsequent programs that require EMT training.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Well … outside of work, the only thing I could do recently was study! But I enjoy hiking and socializing with friends and family, when I get the chance, as well as exploring creative pursuits, such as guitar, woodworking, and metalworking. I especially enjoy my hobby as a blacksmith, where I can see a design come to fruition through the laborious forging of metal.
What inspired you to pursue your associate degree while working at Merced College?
I began my Merced College career with a particular goal in mind, however, through the inspiration of faculty and staff I was fortunate to discover an alternative passion, which I pursued with the support of those around me. However, what many may not realize is that education isn’t always a linear path. So, after consideration, I returned to Merced as a student to complete my degree and forge a new future for myself in the process.
How did your experience as a student influence the way you approach your job at Merced College?
Coming to Merced College as a student first, and then as a tutor, prior to my employment as a Student Services Assistant for Basic Needs, allowed me a unique lens into the struggles and challenges of student life that are not always visible. This allows a better connection and understanding of how to best serve our student population. I take pride in reducing barriers, and promoting a student-first mentality that best aligns with our college motto to foster success.
What advice would you give to other staff members or adult learners thinking about going back to school?
As an adult learner, coming back to school can feel quite intimidating, especially as time goes on. However, what many do not realize is your invaluable life experience has fortified you for this scholarly venture. Adult learners are able to enrich the classroom experience for everyone involved, bringing their unique viewpoint to their peers and professors alike. Through their dedication to education, they inspire students and loved ones to realize it is never too late to make changes in their lives. One only needs to decide, and take the first step into their future.
