Christina Prendergast’s affinity for the William S. Boyd School of Law began when her fiancé was a student there. Today, this UNLV alum is an administrative assistant IV in the admissions office at the law school and is helping prospective students get a first-rate legal education just like her fiancé did.

Why UNLV? 

I graduated from UNLV in 2015 and it was an amazing experience. I just didn't want to leave!

Where did you grow up? 

We moved to Nevada from California when I was 10 years old, so mostly right here in Las Vegas. I graduated from Basic High School.

What inspired you to get into your field? 

My fiancé, Michael Gaskill, graduated from the Boyd School of Law in 2013 and now works for the Nevada attorney for injured workers. While he was attending Boyd, I was a huge fan of the faculty and staff; so when this position opened, I jumped at the chance to work with them. I am an even bigger fan now.

Proudest moment in your life? 

Graduating with my bachelor's degree in women's studies. It took several years from start to completion and I had a ton of encouragement along the way. That is one reason why I love working with non-traditional students and paying forward the support I received.

If you could not work in your current field, what career would you choose?

I have a passion for women's history, so I would probably be a historian.

One tip for success? 

Self-care. I've learned the hard way that you need to put your wellbeing above your goals and that this will help you enjoy your success to the fullest.

If you could fix one thing in the world, what would it be? 

I would give everyone access to higher education. It truly is life-changing.

What would people be surprised to know about you? 

I once studied to become a yoga teacher.

What about UNLV strikes you as different from other places you have worked?

There is such a sense of community at Boyd and the feeling that we are all working toward a common goal: the success of our students. I really enjoy being part of a team.

What are your pastimes?

I enjoy reading, crafting, watching movies, and hanging out with my fiancé and our two puppies.

Tell us about a time in your life when you have been daring.

I am afraid of heights, but I took the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. My legs were shaking when I got to the bottom, but I was able to face my fear and that felt really good.

Tell us about an object in your office that has meaning for you and why.

I have the first thank-you note I ever received from a student. It reminds me that out students are the reason I have a job and that I am here to serve them.