Staff Blog: Emilie Tumale

Full Name: Emilie Tumale
Year at UCLA: 2nd year
Major: Asian American Studies
SPACE Site: Marshall High School
Position in SPACE: 1st year Peer Tutor

I first became involved in SPACE through their Staff Support program during Winter Quarter of my first year, which is technically almost a year ago! I first heard of it when I met my mentor and I asked him why I never saw him during Pilipinos in Engineering (PIE) general meetings—turned out he had site on Wednesdays. 

As I was introduced to SPACE, I wanted to learn more about it. In addition, I wanted to do something more than just pure academics—I wanted to give back to my community. So that was why I applied for Staff Support last year. Going to site at Belmont High School and working with SPACE Staff 2009-10 was what got me fully invested in SPACE. I fell in love with the work I was doing both inside and outside of site.  In addition tutoring students, I also participated in the Tracking and Marketing workgroup as a part of SPACE Staff Support (which is now called SPACE Internship). 

Even after my experience with being a part of Staff Support, I continued to attend staff meetings.  Now I am an official part of SPACE Staff, and I love what I do here.  I thank SPACE for not only putting me out of my comfort zone at times, but for also giving me the opportunity to learn so much and have fun at the same time. When I mention being put out of my comfort zone, I refer to a lot of real-life experiences I endure as a part of staff.   

SPACE has helped me work on my communication and leadership skills, both of which are important to any career.  

I’m glad I’ve become more aware of political issues pertaining to my community thanks to SPACE and Samahang Pilipino in general; I will definitely take what I have learned to heart.