Beyond Cancer Spotlight: Krystina Jarema

Krystina Jarema (she/her) is the Manager, Administrative Programs. Read on to learn about her story!

1. What are your career/research interests? 

My current career interest is to evolve and become an administrative leader. I have developed a strong appreciation for the importance of challenging oneself professionally, which includes learning new skills and taking on diverse roles. This mindset led me to pursue a master's degree in Organizational Leadership at ASU. Through this program, I have gained a deeper understanding of the significant impact a good leader can have on their team and organization and the many facets of an administrative leader.

2. How did your early life experiences shape your education and career choices? 

In my early life, I was instilled with the values of self-improvement and a strong work ethic, which have greatly influenced my educational and career choices. I have always taken pride in my educational and professional achievements, and I was taught to appreciate opportunities as they arose. My current career is the result of a series of fortunate opportunities. My diverse work experiences at a hardware store, a bagel shop, a medical office, a restaurant, and an adoption center have each influenced me in unique ways. They have equipped me with a variety of skills that I now apply in unexpected ways in my current role.

3. What brought you to UCI?

As a transfer undergraduate student majoring in biological anthropology, I was hired as a work-study student at the Cancer Research Institute. During the two years it took to complete my degree, my mentor retired, and I applied for an entry-level position within the unit. I was with the institute from 2016 to 2024.

4. How did you connect with others to build your own sense of community and belonging at work? 

To foster a sense of community and belonging at work, I actively engage with colleagues by participating in social events and collaborative projects, making an effort to discover shared interests that connect me with my peers. Since 2017, I have been the captain of the OncoSlayer team in the Anti-Cancer Challenge, through which I have organized a running team and led several fundraising events. These activities have greatly contributed to my sense of community at work. Additionally, I seek opportunities to mentor and support newer employees, even those in other units, which strengthens my connections and promotes a positive, inclusive workplace culture. I also participate in staff campus groups like the Wellness Ambassadors and the Research Administrators group, and I regularly meet with administrators from other units for walks. These interactions allow me to stay engaged with different units, share experiences, and feel connected to UCI.

5. What motivates you to serve your community and contribute to the CFCCC mission? 

I am deeply motivated by witnessing the positive impact that the UCI cancer community has on our local area. Learning about new grants and innovative projects that enhance cancer treatments and improve cancer-fighting effectiveness inspires me. In a community where cancer touches nearly everyone, either directly or indirectly, I find great value in supporting researchers and clinicians through administrative efforts that enable them to advance their work.

6. What challenges have you experienced in your professional journey?

A common challenge many professionals, including myself, face is managing change effectively. Throughout my career, I have encountered several significant changes that I have successfully navigated. One of the most impactful changes has been adapting to different leadership styles. While a unit's mission may remain constant, each leader's interpretation and vision for that mission can vary greatly, making it challenging to work with diverse personalities and perspectives. Another challenge I faced was recognizing when a role no longer fostered growth. Early in my career, I was hesitant to leave positions due to the comfort of job security. It was difficult to shift that mindset and pursue roles better suited for growth and a sense of belonging.

7. What personal or professional accomplishment are you most proud of? 

One personal accomplishment I'm particularly proud of is completing a marathon. I’ve always been interested in running sense my time on my high school pole vaulting team, but I never considered myself a long-distance runner. Deciding to train for a marathon was a significant challenge, both physically and mentally. Over the course of several months, I committed to running the LA marathon for my 30th birthday. On race day, March 2020, there was talk of it being canceled due to the COVID pandemic, but it was not an I was able to complete my goal. This accomplishment is meaningful to me because it taught me the value of perseverance, discipline, and setting goals. It also boosted my confidence in tackling challenges, both personal and professional, with determination and resilience.

8. What are your interests/hobbies outside of work? 

I am an avid knitter. I started a small business during COVID named "Knit Owl" and handmade beanies and scarves at vendor fairs. I like running and hiking throughout southern orange county. I am a stand-up paddle boarder and have recently picked up a little surfing.

9. What is a fun or random fact about you? 

I am adopted and am originally from an orphanage outside of St. Petersburg Russia. I came to American at 5 yo so English is my second language.

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