Hi, I'm Crystal!

I'm currently pursuing my degree in Public Relations at Cal State Long Beach after transferring from Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa with an associate’s degree in Communication.

It was during my time at OCC and working in customer service, that I discovered my passion for building relationships and creating community. I’ve always been drawn to people, their stories, perspectives, and the ways we connect with one another. That love for connection is what led me to pursue a career in PR.

But before I tell you more about my professional aspirations, here’s a little bit about my background...

A little bit about me...

I was born in the U.S., but I grew up in Peru. A country full of culture, tradition, and heart. I lived there until I was 18, and in 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic, I officially moved to California. The transition wasn’t easy. Moving to a new country with a new language and culture was overwhelming at times, but the excitement of the unknown was stronger than the fear.

Since then, I’ve been balancing school with work in the customer service industry. I’ve held roles at companies like IHOP and The UPS Store, as well as smaller local businesses like PADERIA Bakehouse. On the side, I've been offering pet-sitting services through the Rover app, where I’ve earned over 100 five-star reviews.

Working in customer service taught me a lot about communication, branding, and customer engagement. These experiences sharpened my interpersonal skills and gave me real insight into how different industries shape their messaging and connect with their audiences.

When I’m not working or studying, you’ll usually find me outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, beach days, or running a 5K (my first was last December!), I love staying active and exploring new places. One of my long-term goals is to run a full marathon. I’m always curious, trying new foods, picking up new hobbies, or learning from people with different experiences.

Looking ahead, my goal is to bring my unique background, core values, and voice into the world of public relations. I’m especially passionate about working with brands that care about people and can have a social impact.