New Member Spotlight: Western Region - Yamonte Cooper, EdD

New AASECT member, Yamonte Cooper, EdD, answers a few questions for the New Member Spotlight: Western Region:

1. Can you give us a quick rundown of what keeps you busiest these days?

My primary duties that revolve around my role as the El Camino College Career Center Faculty Coordinator keep me busy. I am also a professional clinical counseling intern at the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center as well as another community based mental health agency. Further, I am involved in numerous statewide and national committees. Time management and being selective in what I participate in and commit to is crucial these days in order for me to maintain balance.     

2. Why was it important for you to become an AASECT member?

It was important for me to become a member of an organization such as AASECT that is devoted to the promotion of sexual health and includes a multidisciplinary professional membership base. 

3. What are your main areas of interest within the field?

I am interested in the intersection between colonialism, slavery, religion, racism, and sex. In addition, I am interested in the intersection between Black masculinity, identity, sexuality, and racism. 

4. What has been the most exciting project you've worked on, and why?

I have worked on numerous projects that I found exciting. I was awarded a Fulbright and went to Germany and shared best practices in career counseling and development. In addition, I have had the opportunity to go to Botswana and study the impact of globalization on English language education.

5. What has been the most challenging project you've worked on, and why? What helped you get through it?

The most challenging project I worked on probably would be my dissertation because it involved a time-consuming methodical process. The support of family and friends helped me get through it.

6. Where do you see your career five years, or even 10 years, from now?

I see a career that includes practicing as a certified sex therapist and a career that continues to be of service and a beneficial presence.

7. Is there anything else you would like to share with colleagues?

I am excited to be a part of AASECT and look forward to meeting you in the near future.