When in crisis, everyone’s favorite neighbor Fred Rogers told us to look for the helpers. Fortunately, there are helpers all around UNLV’s campus and our community, many of whom are trained by the amazing faculty in the Department of Counselor Education, School Psychology and Human Services within the College of Education.
But who helps the helpers? Jose Montalto.
Although he just hit is one-year anniversary, he’s already got a a fan club. ”[He] is an amazing hard worker, and always brings joy to the office and to people around him,” visiting lecturer Chiante Jemison raves.
Josie Boyle, the college’s assistant business manager, admires how quickly he’s shifted gears as his duties have increased. “He is always willing to go above and beyond, even if he doesn't get anything in return.”
So what’s his secret? A positive perspective, strategic thinking (well-honed by his love of video and board games) and openness to new adventures.
Tell us a little bit about what brought you to UNLV.
UNLV has always seemed like a great place to work. The culture and energy just feel awesome. What first drew my attention was when my husband came to get his bachelor's degree. Seeing his experiences as both a student and a student worker here made me want to become a part of the UNLV community.
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
Always learning something new. The challenges I am presented with make me feel like I have accomplished something by the end of the day. On top of that, the staff that I work with are all amazing.
What are your long-term professional aspirations?
To be honest, I am not sure yet. I was with my last employer for approximately 20 years. I have now been with UNLV for one year, and I am looking forward to learning everything I need to help my department run as smoothly as possible.
What have you found helpful from your prior experience in property management in your current role?
One of the biggest takeaways from my time in property management is problem solving. If a resident had an issue, I had to work quickly to get either my maintenance tech out to fix it, or get in contact with a contractor if the issue was bigger than my tech could take care of. It's not that much different here, but instead of residents, I have students and staff members who rely on me to help resolve their questions or concerns.
What's your favorite way to spend your downtime?
When it comes down to it, I am just a geek at heart. I really enjoy playing board games with my friends or playing video games, with Baldur's Gate 3 being my current obsession in the video game realm. There is also going to the occasional [live action role-playing] LARP game or any other excuse to get to cosplay as a fun character.
I understand you're a big fan of Evermore; what is it and why should people go?
Evermore is a theme park [in Utah] where you are transported to a mystical world, and you, as a guest of the park, get to run around and interact with the cast members to complete quests. You can go in your everyday street clothes, or you can dress up and make up a persona! This, of course, falls into my love of cosplay.
Any other recommendations for folks who may be new to Southern Nevada?
If you are into board games, check out Meepleville Board Game Café. It's a small entry price (with student discounts) and then you get to stay as long as you want, playing from a selection of thousands of games. Even if you go alone, the staff there will help you find a group of people to play with. Or if you are unsure as to what game you may want to try, you can always let a staff member know what kinds of games you like and they will always have a great recommendation for you.
