Texas Tech University

Haleigh Riza Alumni Profile

Haleigh Riza HDFS CFAS Alumna Texas Tech University College of Human SciencesHaleigh Riza graduated with honors from the College of Human Sciences (COHS) in 2017 with a dual degree in Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) and Community, Family, and Addiction Sciences (CFAS). Now as a Senior Academic Advisor for the university, she helps set up students for success.

"I have always wanted to be in a 'helping profession.' I have worked with many underserved populations such as foster children, those who struggle with addiction, the disabled population, battered women and children, and now students."

As an academic advisor, Haleigh works with students struggling in college. She helps students who have not declared a major discover what they are passionate about and provides support to those who have had a rough time transitioning to college.

"I enjoy being able to help students take that sigh of relief after being able to choose a major. I love it when a student comes back in and lets me know that they have reached out to resources I provided."

As a former Texas Tech student herself, Haleigh understands what it is like trying to find a calling.

"When I was in college I knew that I wanted to help others; I just wasn't sure in what capacity. Even though I was almost finished with my HDFS degree, I became very interested in CFAS and decided to earn a dual degree in both. This meant I had to do two separate practicums, but I wouldn't take any of it back."

Working towards her Master of Education in Counselor Education with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, she believes her undergraduate degrees fully prepared her for her graduate degree.

"Together HDFS and CFAS helped me have a well-rounded view of the many populations that I would serve as a mental health counselor in addition to the theoretical backgrounds I studied during my undergraduate career."

After she completes her graduate degree in Counselor Education, Haleigh plans to pursue a Ph.D. and work with at-risk students who do not have all the resources necessary to be successful in a higher education setting.

She advises students considering a degree in HDFS or CFAS to follow their interests and to take their practicum seriously.

"Don't be afraid to follow what you are passionate about! HDFS and CFAS are great programs that will assist you in helping others."