This month we have interview questions from Jairon Castellanos-Boteo, First Year College Advisor at TMCC! Find out more about Jairon below.
1. What is your favorite GEAR UP activity/service/event, and why?
My favorite GEAR UP service is Power Hours. I love being able to share the knowledge I’ve gained with students and watching them learn and grow as individuals. These sessions provide a space for meaningful discussions, personal development, and academic support, allowing students to build confidence in their abilities. Seeing their progress and knowing that I played a small part in their journey is incredibly rewarding.
2. Who was your childhood hero, and why?
My childhood hero is my father. He showed me what it means to be an honorable man and demonstrated the power of a strong work ethic. I watched him work countless hours, yet no matter how tired he was, he always made time for my sister and me. His dedication, resilience, and selflessness have shaped the person I am today. To me, my father is a true hero.
3. If you weren’t working for GEAR UP, what do you think you would be doing?
If I weren’t working for GEAR UP, I would be a police officer. I have a strong passion for serving the community and helping others, and law enforcement would allow me to make a direct impact in a different way. Just like in my current role, I would be focused on guiding and protecting others, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to succeed.
4. Of all the students you have worked with, is there one that sticks out in your mind? Why is that? Do you know what they are doing now?
A student that sticks out to me is Adrian. He was one of the first students I worked with, and his enthusiasm and determination were truly inspiring. Adrian came to TMCC and pursued a dual degree in welding and diesel mechanics, hitting the ground running from day one. He consistently checked in with me, and I was there to support him through every step of the process—from his initial application to his last day at TMCC. It was incredibly rewarding to guide him through the challenges of college, helping him navigate paperwork, coursework, and career decisions. Today, he is a successful welder working for a company where he earns an amazing salary. Seeing his journey unfold and knowing that I played a role in helping him achieve his goals is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work.
5. What’s a book, podcast, or show that you’d recommend to everyone?
I highly recommend Atomic Habits by James Clear. It’s a powerful book that breaks down how small, consistent changes can lead to significant personal and professional growth. The strategies in this book are practical and can help anyone build better habits, break bad ones, and create lasting success. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to improve themselves and their daily routines!
6. Give us a fun fact about Jairon!
I am a certified Coffee Master! I earned my certification from Starbucks four years ago, which deepened my appreciation for coffee and its rich history. I love exploring different brewing methods, tasting unique coffee blends, and sharing my knowledge with others. Whether it’s a perfectly crafted espresso or a smooth pour-over, coffee is definitely one of my passions!
