Tara O'Neill
Summary
Positive, empathetic, and resourceful individual with a strong ability to connect with students and guide them in their academic and personal development. Possesses a solid understanding of student advising and counseling principles, along with excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Committed to creating a supportive environment that fosters student success and well-being.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
California Department Of Rehabilitation
10.2024 - Current
- Facilitate effective delivery of vocational rehabilitation services, including eligibility determination, development of Individualized Plans for Employment (IPEs), and case closures.
- Assist individuals with disabilities, including students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), in overcoming barriers to employment and achieving career goals.
- Collaborate with local colleges and Disability Support Programs and Services (DSPS) teams to provide resources and tailored guidance for diverse student populations.
- Conduct outreach initiatives, including job fairs and community presentations, to promote vocational rehabilitation services and generate referrals.
- Support students transitioning from educational environments to employment by providing vocational assessments, career planning, and personalized interventions.
Adjunct Counselor
Merced City College
10.2023 - Current
- Provide comprehensive academic, vocational, and personal counseling to support students in achieving their goals
- Develop personalized and detailed Student Educational Plans to guide students through their academic journeys
- Implement creative and flexible counseling techniques to boost matriculation rates among nontraditional students
- Serve as a dedicated advocate, resolving college-related issues and promoting a supportive learning environment
- Assess and address the diverse needs of students, including cultural differences and disabling conditions, to ensure inclusive support
- Work independently and in small groups to develop and execute impactful educational projects
School Counselor
Merced City Elementary School District
08.2021 - 07.2023
- Provide academic goal setting and tracking
- Conduct college and career planning
- Guide enrollment of students in local college programs
- Assist with selection of the appropriate dual enrollment courses relevant to career pathways
- Ensure that a climate of fairness and respect is promoted
- Provide social emotional learning
- Lead conflict resolutions
- Provide crisis counseling
- Coordinate and market events and programs
- Serve as a member of multiple committees
Family Support Specialist
Madera Unified School District
08.2019 - 07.2021
- Improve academic and social outcomes for foster and homeless students by providing tailored support based on individual needs
- Supervisor of in-person learning hub for at-promise students
- Coordinate college, career, and military workshops
- Run queries and organize data in spreadsheets
- Assist with FAFSA, college application processes, and selection of classes
- Contribute to the foster and homeless grant writing
- Conduct numerous conferences as well as community events
- Develop a website and brochure to promote our department's programs and important information
- Effectively utilize community resources to ensure all students and families are receiving the services and support they deserve
- Deliver clothes, school supplies, food, hygiene kits and other essential resources and services
- Assist in developing programs to improve overall well-being and health
- Certified in Suicide Alertness and Mandated Reporter & Child Maltreatment
Education
M.S. - School Counseling & PPS
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN01.2020
B.S. - Business Marketing
California State University
Fresno, CA01.2016
Skills
- Empathy and Active Listening
- Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving
- Collaborative Leadership and Communication
- Cultural Competence and Inclusivity
- Efficient and Effective Time Management
- Student Educational Planning and Advising
- Career and Personal Counseling
- Proficiency with Navigate, Canvas, and Other Educational Platforms
Accomplishments
Big Brother Big Sister of the Year – Awarded for outstanding mentorship and community service, signed by Congressman Jim Costa.
Certification
Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential
Timeline
Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
California Department Of Rehabilitation
10.2024 - Current
Adjunct Counselor
Merced City College
10.2023 - Current
School Counselor
Merced City Elementary School District
08.2021 - 07.2023
Family Support Specialist
Madera Unified School District
08.2019 - 07.2021
M.S. - School Counseling & PPS
Capella University
B.S. - Business Marketing
California State University
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