Araceli Arias
Ara is here to support you as you begin—or continue—your journey at College of San
Mateo. As the Program Services Coordinator for ESL, she helps multilingual students
enroll in ESL classes, navigate college enrollment steps, and access the resources
they need to succeed. She also works closely with the Coastside community in Half
Moon Bay to promote CSM’s Coastside Center and the programs offered there.
Ara began her own college journey at Cañada College and went on to earn a BFA in Graphic Design from San José State University. With over 10 years of experience in the San Mateo County Community College District, she has supported students through roles in student services, mentorship, and advocacy. She was instrumental in launching the DREAM Center (now the Undocumented Community Center) and has been a strong advocate for undocumented and first-generation college students.
Now at CSM, Ara is committed to ensuring that students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered as they take their next step in education.
