The John H. Martinson Honors Program (JMHP) is excited to welcome Mr. Gabriel “Gabe” Alvarado-Gonzalez as the new JMHP Academic Advisor starting this Spring 2026 semester! Gabe will be all JMHP students’ point of contact regarding credit alignment, curricular questions, experiential learning opportunities, and finding campus resources that support student success.  

Across Gabe’s prior roles as an Academic Advisor at Georgia State University Advisement Center and Admissions Counselor at Dalton State College, and in the present in the JMHP, Gabe has consistently prioritized empathetic communication. At every meeting, his primary intention is putting student needs, student success, and student perspectives at the forefront of the conversation. He describes the significance of adaptation in the advising sphere, mentioning that because not everyone is the same it is important to adapt his advising style depending on the student.  For example, this might be finding an element of “common ground” to break the ice at the beginning of an advising session, striking up an interesting conversation to make meetings feel less overwhelming, and maintaining a consistently positive attitude that helps every single student feel both welcomed and seen. 

If you are a current or incoming JMHP student who would like to schedule an advising session, Gabe’s biggest recommendation is this: come prepared with at least a brief plan and/or a list of questions. It is completely okay if you are not sure where to start – that is why Gabe is here to help.  

A principal piece of advice Gabe has for all students who might be struggling with balance or figuring out what comes next is simply taking a step back and reflecting on what is working versus what is not. Amidst the overwhelm and stress that is sometimes inevitable as a student, taking a personal life audit might help clarify or pinpoint areas of growth. Sometimes, the best plan of action is simply to rest and “chill out,” with the understanding that things will work out. This does not mean letting go of all responsibilities or goals, but rather that you are very intentional about taking breaks, prioritizing rest, and being present within your life.  

On a similar note, Gabe described how one of the best pieces of advice he has received in his life has been that “one day if you're going to look back or blink, you will realize that you didn't live in the moment,” in other words, “you need to appreciate the present moment” in the present moment. With that in mind, students and staff members alike should know that rest is not only a good idea, but a necessity.  

Outside of his academic advising role on campus, Gabe is looking forward to getting back into musical theater and additionally, continuing to attend live music festivals & musicals in Atlanta. He is a big fan of Broadway productions (especially Hairspray, Dear Evan Hanson, Waitress, and more) and loves to listen to Ariana Grande, Melanie Martinez, pop music, EDM music, and soundtracks. Nintendo, Pokémon, Ru Paul’s Drag Race, and Horror Film are additional media pieces of choice.   

On the note of hobbies and balancing them with academics and work life, Gabe’s best recommendation is to not overdo it. Focus on what makes you the most excited. Hobbies and the arts are meant to rejuvenate you. Therefore, they should not drain you or take too much attention away from academics or career goals.  

Meet with Gabe or stop by and say hi at the Honors office. He is excited to start formally advising students soon this semester and is truly looking forward to connecting with JMHP students.