Today we’d like to introduce you to Clementina Jose

Hi Clementina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?

My journey to where I am today has truly been shaped by faith, grace, and the incredible support of my parents. From a young age, they always believed in me and encouraged me to dream big. Their unwavering support gave me the foundation I needed to excel academically and professionally.

One of the pivotal moments in my early life was when my parents helped me enroll in an early college high school. That experience was transformative—it opened my eyes to the possibilities that education could offer and showed me just how much I could achieve. It was there that I first began to understand the power of hard work, dedication, and the doors that could open when you have a clear vision for your future.

With my parents’ encouragement and resources, I was able to complete my undergraduate degree in two years, then my master’s in two years. By the time I was 21, I had earned my license, and by 22, I was already practicing in my field. Their belief in me, combined with the opportunities I had early on, helped me get to where I am today.

I truly believe that the combination of my education, the support of my parents, and the opportunities I’ve been given have shaped my path and my drive to continue growing and contributing in meaningful ways.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. There have been many challenges along the way. During my highschool years, I struggled with perfectionism, which made everything feel more difficult. Although I graduated high school with a 3.5 GPA, I often felt like I was barely keeping up with my own expectations, and it was a constant internal battle.

Then came college, and right in the middle of my studies, COVID hit. That was a huge challenge, not only in terms of adjusting to remote learning and trying to stay motivated, but also just the uncertainty of everything happening in the world. Finishing coursework on time while navigating the new reality of a global pandemic was really tough.

Graduate school brought its own set of battles. Starting a full-time program at 19 was daunting, and dealing with imposter syndrome, especially in such a demanding field, was a real struggle. There were moments when I questioned whether I belonged or if I was truly capable of achieving everything I set out to do. Alongside that, there was a lot of negative talk surrounding my field, which added to the uncertainty of my future post-graduation.

Through all of these struggles, the support of my parents and my faith played a crucial role in keeping me grounded. They were always there to encourage me, lift me up, and remind me of my purpose. My faith as a believer in Jesus Christ gave me strength and peace in the midst of those challenges. It’s really been the combination of my faith and the unshakable support from my family that has kept me afloat and helped me keep pushing forward through all the ups and downs.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

I currently serve as a Program Manager in higher education, and I hold a master’s degree in Social Work along with my professional license. My work primarily focuses on advocating for student success. I’m known for being a strong voice for those who often feel unheard—the lost, the broken, and students of color who may not always have safe spaces where they can thrive. I am deeply passionate about creating environments that support their well-being and help them succeed, both academically and personally.

In addition to my day-to-day responsibilities, I also provide consultancy services to several agencies, where I focus on Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and related initiatives. I have the honor of serving as a grant reviewer on a seasonal basis, and I contribute as a writer on several education technology platforms, where I focus on topics related to mental health, education, and student success.

What I’m most proud of is the impact I’ve been able to make at such a young age, particularly in the spaces of mental health advocacy and student support. I’m proud to have played a part in helping to create more inclusive and supportive environments for students from marginalized backgrounds. I think what sets me apart is the blend of my education, my work in higher education, and my personal commitment to being a voice for those who may not always feel seen or heard.

I consider myself fortunate to be able to wear so many different hats, and at just 23, I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to contribute to meaningful change in the lives of students and the communities I serve.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that closed mouths don’t get fed—don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out to people you admire. LinkedIn is a fantastic tool for this; it allows you to connect with professionals in your field and engage in meaningful conversations. I’ve found that many seasoned professionals are more than willing to help if they have the time and capacity, but they can’t offer support if you don’t take the first step in reaching out.

When it comes to finding a mentor, I’ve learned that it often takes a few tries to find the right fit. It’s a process of trial and error, and you may not always find someone who aligns with your goals right away. But that’s okay—don’t get discouraged. Sometimes the right mentor will find you when you least expect it, or when you’re working on something that sparks their interest. And remember, mentorship doesn’t always have to come from just one person. You can have multiple mentors, each offering different perspectives and guidance.

Networking has been instrumental in my career. What’s worked well for me is being intentional about building relationships rather than just collecting contacts. I try to engage with people by sharing what I’m working on, asking for advice, and showing genuine interest in their work. It’s important to be authentic—people can tell when you’re genuinely invested in the conversation, and that helps build trust.

Lastly, some things can only be learned through experience. While mentors and networking are invaluable, there are certain lessons you’ll only learn by actually being in the field and taking on challenges. Don’t shy away from those moments—they’re opportunities for growth.

So, my advice would be to actively seek out connections, be open to learning from different people, and trust that the right mentor will come along in time.

Contact Info:

• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/clementina-jose