Hi everyone! My name is Kristina (she/her) and I'm so excited to be part of the Running Start team here at Highline College.

I graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in history and a minor in diversity. During my undergraduate studies, I had the fantastic opportunity to work as a peer advisor and was able to work with many incoming freshman and other undergrads. Working as a peer advisor spurred my love for working with students, specifically older high school and college students, and supporting them through an exciting, yet intimidating change. Because of my love of learning about diverse identities and stories, I chose to pursue my Masters in Teaching at the University of Washington where I graduated in 2023. I worked as a substitute teacher for about a year after I completed my degree and am now working as a Running Start Academic Advisor.

I am passionate about working with students with different backgrounds and interests. As a former Running Start student at Bellevue College who did not have a lot of support and guidance, I am excited to help guide and assist current Running Start students. I want to make my advising space as comfortable as possible to allow students to feel as safe and open to speaking with me. I am looking forward to working with my students as a support to help you on your educational and professional interests and goals.

In my free time, I love to read cheesy novels, watch cheesy shows/movies, and play (struggle) with my dog, Jirachi (yes, named after the Pokemon).

Please come and visit my office for a chat! You can find me in Building 6 on the top floor in Room 239!