Dr. Mariana DeSaracho Caro

Counselor / Professor of Applied Psychology

Since 1991, I have been a counselor and professor at Saddleback College.  I am bi-cultural, bi-lingual (English/Spanish) and have extensive experience in career/academic/educational counseling, personal and multicultural counseling, crisis intervention, and teaching at the community college level.   

My love for teaching stems from helping others.  As a professor, I have the opportunity to work with students while we build a community based learning environment.  In addition, as a counselor, it is a privilege to work with students on an individual basis, as well as in group settings.

While in the classroom and during counseling sessions, I am constantly encouraging my students to pursue their personal, career and educational goals.

In 1993, I made a personal commitment to attend graduate school once again.  I figured I should “walk the talk” and share my example of how higher education can be achieved with determination, focus and dedication.

While working full time as a tenured professor and counselor at Saddleback College, I attended USC – University of Southern California during nights and weekends.  After five long years, I received my Doctoral degree in Education from USC.

During my personal educational journey, I had to overcome many obstacles.  I became pregnant with my first child during my second year at USC.  Needless to say, my academic and work load became more difficult and challenging.  Through my hard work and perseverance, I continued my course of study.  This in turn was a positive decision, since I discovered that I had become pregnant with my second child during my dissertation phase of my doctoral studies.  I am proud to have completed my Doctoral degree, while three months pregnant with my second child.

Prior to 1990, I received a B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing from San Diego State University, and a Masters of Education with a specialization in Multicultural Counseling from San Diego State University.