Associated Students Staff Newsletter

Hi A.S. Staff,

Digging up these throwback photos flooded my mind, and heart, with memories of nearly 30 summers at Mission Bay Aquatic Center. That tall, lanky student staff member scarfing down Rubio's between classes, getting up at 4:30 a.m. every morning to make it to MBAC at 5 a.m. for rowing practice is a distant memory. But a few pounds (thanks Rubios!) and many, MANY, grey hairs later, my love of all things MBAC has only grown with every passing season.

While most people look forward to summer for slowing down, restful days at the beach or traveling far away for vacations, we at MBAC love summer because we get to create those unforgettable experiences for others. MBAC is a truly special place. Over three decades, I have seen how we help people overcome barriers, connect people to the ocean, use coastal recreation as a vehicle to spark youth interest in STEM and introduce beginners to a lifelong passion for watersports.

For our staff, the days and hours can be long and grueling. They work hard and do an amazing job managing risk, creating amazing memories for our users, and sharing their passion for the water. Getting to meet, train and develop new crops of student workers every summer is an outstanding feeling and the ultimate reward is watching them grow in action. Every year, I am also humbled by countless stories of how MBAC has profoundly impacted the lives of so many current and future sailors, surfers, wakeboarders, kayakers and paddlers in San Diego.

To my Associated Students colleagues: don't just read about the magic, come experience it! We invite all A.S. staff to take advantage of a free kayak or stand-up paddleboard rental this summer. Just stop by our front desk, let the team know you work for A.S. and they’ll take care of you. Plus, if you’re a current student who hasn't taken an ENS watersports class yet, the fall semester is the perfect time to fit one in. Come get out on the water, recharge and enjoy the benefits of watersports recreation yourself!

Thank you for an amazing 30 summers, and here is to another great season!

Kevin Waldick
Director of the Mission Bay Aquatic Center

Every A.S. facility is filled with unique spaces and details that help shape the student experience. Take your best guess at the zoomed in photos of eight locations across A.S. and see if you can recognize the spaces that help bring our campus to life!

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Answer Key

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1. What is your name and title?

   Imelda Rivera, SDSU Children’s Center Master Teacher. 

2. Which A.S. department do you work in? Describe your job in 25 words or less.

   My job at the Children’s Center is a rewarding experience, and there is never a dull moment. Along with their families, I get to witness the children grow. Whether I am watching them take their first steps or having conversations with them, the children put a smile on my face every day.. 

3. How long have you worked for A.S.?

   21 Years (longer if you count my part-time years).

4. What do you like most about working for A.S.?

   Having a job that I still very much enjoy doing, even after 21 years. A.S. has provided an environment where I have positively connected with families and coworkers. 

5. What was the last movie you saw? Thumbs up or thumbs down?

   “In the Grey.” Thumbs-up!

6. What is your favorite dessert? And why?

   I love cookies! For me, there is nothing better than having a warm chocolate chip cookie with a cold glass of milk.

7. Which three people (living or dead) would you like to have dinner with? And why?

   My maternal grandfather and paternal grandmother, because I never met them. It would be nice to put a face to the names I’ve heard my family talk about. Also, my maternal grandmother! It would be awesome to eat her cooking one more time and laugh with her.

8. If you had to move to another country, which one would you choose? And why?

   Italy is my dream vacation and I have yet to go, so why not live in a country with great food, gelato, beautiful coastlines and countryside.

9. What is your favorite book? And why?

   My favorite children’s book I enjoy reading to my class is “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak. It is a classic and a fun book to read!

10. Would you rather be a superhero or the world’s best chef? And why?

    I don’t like to cook, so definitely a superhero!

11. What is your favorite national park or museum to visit? And why?

    Jasper in Canada! The scenery is beautiful. It’s the Canadian Rockies, featuring lakes, rivers, waterfalls and glaciers.

12. What is your favorite breakfast food? And why?

    Pancakes! You can add toppings or add variety with chocolate chips, cinnamon or blueberries.

13. What does your perfect burger have on it?

    I’m pretty simple: cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes and ketchup.

14. Would you rather speak all languages or be able to talk with animals? And why?

    I’m not really an animal person, so I would definitely want to speak all languages.

15.  What is one of your favorite things to do on the SDSU campus?

    I like going to concerts on campus.