PATRICIA CHRISTMAS
Summary
Highly motivated administrative professional with proven expertise in higher education and financial aid operations. Skilled collaborator with a track record of improving processes, ensuring compliance, and exceeding organizational goals. Strong communicator with exceptional customer service abilities, adept at engaging diverse student populations. Proficient in Microsoft Office, database management systems, and marketing planning and execution. Committed to supporting institutional missions by delivering accurate and student-centered services.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Admissions and Recruitment Specialist
Baylor University
Waco
12.2025 - Current
- Provided guidance on academic programs and financial aid options for students interested in the School of Music.
- Utilized CRM systems to track recruitment efforts, student inquiries, and School of Music applications.
- Compiled and maintained statistical data related to admissions trends and outcomes throughout the year.
- Assisted students and parents with the application processes, admission inquiries, and student onboarding.
- Collaborated with cross-functional departments within the university to effectively address student inquiries and concerns.
- Coordinated and executed large-scale events for 600+ attendees, including audition days, campus tours, and informational presentations for prospective students and their families.
- Participated in college fairs, open houses, and other events to promote university programs around the region.
- Facilitated communication between the Admissions department, and the Financial Aid department to resolve student concerns and improve the overall enrollment experience.
- Counseled prospective students and their families throughout the admissions and enrollment process by providing guidance, informational materials, and personalized support through the process.
Financial Aid Advisor
New Mexico State University- Alamogordo
Alamogordo
04.2024 - 12.2025
- Reviewed and processed financial aid applications and supporting documentation to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study programs.
- Leveraged systems such as FAFSA Partner Portal and NSLDS to validate student eligibility, review loan and grant history, and ensure accurate awarding of Title IV funds in compliance with federal regulations.
- Prepared and conducted over 100+ Financial aid presentations to groups of 20 to 40 students, including student orientations, and financial presentations to include tax preparation, loans, and funding strategies/options.
- Provided in-depth knowledge of Title IV federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants, Direct Loans, and Work-Study, to ensure accurate awarding, disbursement, and compliance with federal regulations.
- Contributed to the successful launch of a financial literacy program targeting students not meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.
- Reduced financial aid-related customer service issues by 15% by creating clear, easy-to-understand financial aid materials and resources.
- Audited financial aid files to ensure accuracy and compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations, identifying and correcting discrepancies as needed.
- Resolved 60+ financial aid inquiries daily, by providing high-quality customer service to diverse student populations while consistently promoting student satisfaction through accurate and timely support.
- Participated in university initiatives focused on student recruitment, retention, and academic success.
- Contributed to improved student retention rates through targeted financial advising and strategic planning.
Program Coordinator
University of Maryland Global Campus
Mildenhall
06.2022 - 08.2023
- Assisted students throughout the admissions process, including academic advising and financial aid counseling, to ensure seamless onboarding.
- Utilized customer relationship management systems such as PeopleSoft, Salesforce, and other university platforms to manage student information and communication.
- Tracked and analyzed class enrollment analytics, student interest, and degree progression.
- Responded to an average of 200+ student inquiries weekly via phone, email, and in-person, consistently achieving a 95% satisfaction rate.
- Supported recordkeeping and prepared essential documentation, including reports and correspondence, to maintain compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
- Planned and executed marketing events and programs to increase qualified leads to assist with student recruitment and retention.
- Coordinated the creation of graphics and web content to enhance the effectiveness of financial aid and recruitment marketing campaigns.
- Delivered educational presentations and guided students through the Financial Aid application and submission processes to improve understanding and student federal aid submission.
- Provided technological support in live streaming and troubleshooting for online learning initiatives, facilitating remote education across Europe for in-person and virtual students.
Education
BBA - Business Administration
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, Maryland08-2025
AGS: Associate of Arts - General Studies
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, Maryland08-2023
HR People Analytics Certificate -
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, Maryland05.2025
Decision Support For Business Certificate -
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, Maryland05.2025
Skills
- Higher Education Sector Experience
- Financial Aid Expertise
- Database Management
- Microsoft Office Suite Proficiency
- Records Administration
- Technology & Software Adaptability
- Customer Relations & CRM Systems
- Customer Service & Conflict Resolution
- Marketing Planning and Execution
- Time Management & Multitasking
- Bilingual: English & Spanish
Certificates
- SAVE Commonly Used Immigration Documents Overview
- Comprehensive Financial Aid & Admission Offers
- How to Report FVT/GE Data to NSLDS
Timeline
Admissions and Recruitment Specialist
Baylor University
12.2025 - Current
Financial Aid Advisor
New Mexico State University- Alamogordo
04.2024 - 12.2025
Program Coordinator
University of Maryland Global Campus
06.2022 - 08.2023
BBA - Business Administration
University of Maryland Global Campus
AGS: Associate of Arts - General Studies
University of Maryland Global Campus
HR People Analytics Certificate -
University of Maryland Global Campus
Decision Support For Business Certificate -
University of Maryland Global Campus