Introducing our new Associate Director!
Meet Aja and learn more about her role
Aja Gore joined optiMize’s full-time staff as the new Associate Director. With a background in Pre-College and university programming, we are excited to see all the unique and innovative ideas Aja brings to optiMize through her experiences.
What drew you to optiMize and how did you first hear about it?
This program is very unique in the sense that it is mostly student run and because I am really student focused I was very much intrigued in how this program came to be. Honestly, I saw the posting and I looked at the job description and was like, “ I really like this program”. And so I started doing research on it and the more I looked into it the more I was liking what I saw.
What excites you about social innovation and the SIC itself?
The different ideas the teams are going to bring to the table and just being able to be a part of the process of assisting students believe in themselves and their passions.
What inspires you? How does that apply to your role?
Professionally, there are two things that inspire me. Access to equitable education for underrepresented and underserved populations is the first thing. I believe that everyone should have access to post-secondary education with the knowledge that everyone's journey is not the same. Looking at education through a holistic lens and creating holistic practices is my professional goal. Another inspiration for me is mental health and wellness. Discussions are starting to be had and there is more work to be done because we are in a mental health crisis. In many communities there was always a crisis but not enough resources and it affected mostly marginalized communities. As a professional, a person, a human being, I make sure that I am focused on my wellness because I am no good to anyone if I am not well. Also, I have the same philosophy with the students I come in contact with whether that is through supervision, mentorship, or just passing by. Now personally, my siblings inspire me. Being the oldest comes with great responsibility and everyday they are the reason I do what I do and I love it.
What was your path before you joined optiMize and what brought you here?
I have worked in Admissions, Pre-college Programs, Fraternity and Sorority Life and Inclusion and Diversity departments. I believe that each role has taught me very valuable skills that can be used in my future professional goals. That mindset is what brought me to optiMize not only is it different from previous roles, I believe that there is a lot that can be learned from this role that can help me become a better professional.
Anything and everything, the whole history of Aja.
Anything and everything! Alright, here we go
I was born in Chicago and raised in Detroit.
I am Black and Puerto Rican.
Like I mentioned before I am the oldest of three siblings. However, I have 5 “adopted” siblings. Ask me about them there is a story lol
I am a dog mom. Her name is Athena and she is a 4 yr old Golden Shepherd.
Hobbies: Dance, Read Books (I sometimes live at the library), Paint..Emphasis on dance because if there is music you might see me dancing, especially if it is a hustle lol
I am a shoe fanatic (mostly heels). My wardrobe is typically based on the shoes I wear that day.
I started an education consultant business called Fostering Brilliance Educational Services. I will be relaunching my services in 2024.
I am an introverted extrovert.
Horses and lions are my favorite animals outside of dogs!
I am allergic to nuts.
Favorite food: Korean foods anything from ramen, k-bbq, hot pot (I am still learning to cook different items), Puerto Rican- arroz con dulce, arroz con gandules, pollo guisado, papa de relleno, Southern Soul Food, anything with salmon or steak involved.
Personal dream of mine is opening my own bookstore that also serves as an arts center. So there will be rooms that can be rented for classes whether that's dance, yoga, painting, etc.
So now you’ve entered this new role and what are you most excited about?
Learning! I love to learn new things and challenge myself and I believe this role will allow me to do just that!
Is there anything you would like to share with the optiMize community either about yourself or your work?
Since I am new, please say hi. I love meeting new people. I look forward to getting to know the community and the program. And I am just really excited!!
If you’d like to chat with her, feel free to sign up for her office hours or stop by the optiMize office!