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About Academic Exploration Advising

Our Mission

Academic Exploration Advising guides our diverse scholarly community in exploring academic interests and personal development opportunities. As students engage in reflection and discovery, our team of academic advisors provide individualized guidance, empowering students to set goals that support their holistic identity and enrich their undergraduate experience. Advisors and students collaborate to design a personalized plan that encompasses a wide range of essential academic, professional, wellness and engagement resources to support each student’s overall development and success. We strive to provide an inclusive, accessible environment built on accountability, appreciation and respect for our students, the larger USC community and our professional standards.

Meet the AEA Advising Team

Sara Holdren

Sarah Holdren

Assistant Vice Provost, Academic Advising

Education: I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, my Master of Education in Post-Secondary Administration and Student Affairs and my Doctor of Education from the University of Southern California (USC).

Experience and Professional Interests: I was an academic advisor at USC for 12 years and loved working with students to help them plan their time here. In my current role, I meet with a small number of students, but my main focus is serving and advocating for the academic advising community at USC.

Advice to Exploratory Students: Your story is your own – what’s right for someone else may not be what you need or want, but it’s always good to listen to their experiences.

Favorite USC Location: My favorite USC location is Queen’s Courtyard – the fountain and plaza in between the Norris Cinema Theatre and Bing Theatre. I was in a mainstage play in the Bing years ago, and the Courtyard was always a great place to relax.

Fun Fact: I lived in Japan when I was in elementary school, and worked as a clothing model while I was there. 

Ja'Nae Davis

Ja’Nae Davis

Student Services Advisor II

Education: I earned my Bachelor of Art in Anthropology from the University of Arizona, and earned my Master of Education in Post-Secondary Administration and Student Affairs from the University of Southern California (USC).

Experience and Professional Interests: My career spans various leadership roles in student support and advocacy at USC and the University of California, Los Angeles. Using student-centered approaches, I see academic advising as a partnership with each student – an opportunity to connect, reflect, and explore resources and opportunities that foster and promote personal and academic fulfillment.

Advice to Exploratory Students: Utilize USC’s Kortschak Center for Learning and Creativity academic coaching, tools and resources for support with setting and accomplishing goals that are meaningful for you.

Favorite USC Location: My favorite USC location is the Sculpture Garden near the USC Fisher Museum of Art. It’s a great place to relax and recharge!

Fun Fact: I volunteer with various community organizations in the Los Angeles area, including USC Volunteer Center and Good Neighbors programs. 

Lisette Juarez

Lisette Juarez

Student Services Advisor II

Education: I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education Sciences and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Ecology from the University of California, Irvine. I have also earned a Master of Education in Educational Counseling from the University of Southern California (USC).

Experience and Professional Interest(s): I have supported students in the areas of academic advising, career counseling, and program development throughout my career in higher education. My professional interests lie in supporting students in transition and fostering a student sense of belonging to ensure every student feels valued and empowered to thrive. 

Advice to Exploratory Students: It is okay to not have it all figured out. Take the time to explore the opportunities and resources available on campus and engage in different activities, clubs, and events that spark your interest. Your experiences will contribute to your personal and professional growth. 

Favorite USC Location: My favorite USC location is the seating area in front of the Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) building. It used to be one of my go-to study spots! 

Fun Fact: I learned to bake and decorate sugar cookies within the last year and have now made over 1000 cookies.

Maria Shanks

Maria Shanks

Student Services Advisor I

Education: I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in Chinese and Legal Studies from the University of Oregon. Following that, I obtained my master’s in psychology from Pepperdine University. 

Experience and Professional Interests: I have worked with a diverse range of students, from first-year undergraduates at the University of Oregon to graduate students at Pepperdine University. My passion lies in guiding students through a holistic approach that encompasses their academic, personal, and social growth, empowering them to reach their full potential.

Advice to Exploratory Students: Explore new opportunities and experiences, whether it’s joining a club/organization or enrolling in a course outside of your comfort zone. College is a transformative period for self-discovery and personal growth, so be open to new experiences that can help uncover your passions!

Favorite USC Location: My favorite USC location is the Doheny Memorial Library because of its beautiful architecture. It’s a quiet area, ideal for studying or enjoying a good book. 

Fun Fact: I’ve lived in three different countries – Canada, China, and the United States.