What is your routine for the first few hours of your day?
I start my day bright and early at 4 a.m. My youngest son has a rare bipolar/ADHD diagnosis, and consistent exercise plays a big role in supporting his productivity and mental health. So we make it a point to wake up early and hit the gym as soon as it opens at 5 a.m. After getting our workout in, we head back home to get ready for the day ahead. This routine has been such a positive experience for both of us, physically and emotionally. We're growing stronger together, and I’m so proud and grateful that he trusts me to be his accountability partner.
What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that changed your perspective?
Gosh! This is so tough! I have read 77 books this year, and I love television, movies, and music! Hmmm. If I had to point my finger at one thing that had an impact on my perspective, it would be the most recent book that I read: The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma. This book was recommended to me by a co-worker, and I remember being so mad at the line “Most of us die at 30 and are buried at 80.” The book really hones in on starting your morning early to allow for focus on personal development. It’s not your typical self-help read; it’s a story.
What is one piece of advice you wish you had received earlier in your career?
Over the years, I’ve received plenty of great advice, but one thing I wish someone had told me early on is, “One day, you’re going to retire, so make sure you prioritize jobs with a good retirement plan.” It’s funny because no one really talked to me about that, and yet it’s such a practical piece of wisdom. My perspective on careers has always been that they’re temporary: We grow, evolve, and our goals shift over time. But planning for the future? That’s something I wish I had thought about a little sooner.
What is your favorite campus dining hall meal?
I go to the dining hall once a week, and my go-to is always Pagliacci Pizza. I grab a slice of pie and a Caesar salad. So good!
What is something that someone has done for you lately for which you were most grateful?
I’m a total Christmas enthusiast and love going all out with decorating. This year, I ran out of time to decorate the outside of the house before heading back to work after the holiday break. To my surprise, my husband stepped in and took care of everything. He put up all the decorations, lit up the house beautifully, and even picked up some new ones to add to the display. It might sound small, but it meant so much to me. He knows how much the magic of Christmas means to me, and this thoughtful gesture was genuinely the sweetest. I was so grateful – it absolutely made my day.
What tool does every campus housing pro need to know how to use, and when was the last time you used one?
The best tool every campus housing pro needs is something we all have: your smile! You’ve got to smile through it all, my friends. This industry isn’t always easy, but a smile can make the tough days a little lighter and the good days even brighter. It’s not just about spreading positivity to others; it’s a reminder to yourself to stay grounded and keep going. I use this tool every single day, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything!
What was your favorite class when you were a student?
My favorite class was botany. In high school, I took one of those career aptitude tests, and it suggested I’d thrive in an outdoors and active career. While I didn’t end up as a naturalist or forest ranger, I’ve definitely embraced those passions in my life. I have a plethora of plants, love gardening, and enjoy plenty of nature walks here in the beautiful state of Washington. Sometimes, a class sparks something deeper than just a career path. For me, botany ignited a lifelong love of nature and all things green.
What hobby would you pursue if time and money were no object?
I would LOVE to go to culinary school and travel all over the world to work in the top kitchens with the best chefs! It would be amazing to experience that. Cooking can be a hobby, right?
What is your favorite tradition from any campus where you have worked?
Cowchella! The University of California Merced is the youngest member of the University of California. They’re located out in the country and are surrounded by cow fields. How do you hype up such a location? You start Cowchella! This is an event that the ASUCM (Associated Students of UC Merced) Activities Board puts on each year. It is a play on Coachella, with musicians, food, drinks, and all the Bobcat energy imaginable – so fun and a fantastic way to raise money!
What song do you count on to hype you up to start the day or help you celebrate at the end of a long one?
Just one?! According to my Spotify “2024 Wrapped,” my top song was “Beautiful Things” by Benson Boone. I apparently played it 44 times in one day! Right behind that was Jack Harlow’s “Lovin’ On Me.” Then I went full-on into my “Pink Pilates Princess Roller Skating Pop” phase, diving into Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat, and Chappell Roan (seriously, who doesn’t love Chappell?). But if we’re talking about what really hypes me up, it’s got to be my “Boujee Football Rap” playlist. Think Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, and, surprisingly, Post Malone – because nothing gets me moving like that mix!
Paula Diaz is the manager of program operations for student and desk services within student life at the University of Washington in Seattle.Would you like to see yourself or a colleague included in the Snapshot column? Complete the questions on this form or share the link with someone you think we should get to know better.
