Together We…Overcome Our Nerves
Banana pudding matcha, notebooks and Post-it notes are some of the key ingredients to making Nepthalye Vargas excel as one of the Human Resources Generalists for the Riverside Southwest (RCSW) region. Over the past year and half, Nepthalye has supported her region through summer trainings, presenting to Program Leaders and conducting monthly visits to school sites. Find out about her theme song and more below…
Why did you choose to work at Think Together? What keeps you going?
My supervisor at my previous job invited me to apply for a position. At the time, I was working in human resources at Target and was trying to gain more HR experience through a full-time position. I could really see myself working for a place like Think Together because I valued the mission in changing the odds for kids.
Working in Human Resources is fulfilling because it allows me to build genuine connections with my colleagues during both positive and challenging moments. Even when situations are difficult, you remain optimistic and solution-focused to create a better outcome for everyone involved.
How do you get ready for the school year?
Caffeine! That and I try my best to prioritize organization. I ask a lot of questions, make a lot of lists and update all my trackers. I try to communicate as much as I can, so I don’t miss anything for the upcoming year and stay efficient in my work.
What accomplishments have you or your team done this year that has filled you with the most pride? Why?
I had the opportunity to lead summer trainings for RCSW and speak in regionals and other all-team gatherings. Public speaking has never been my strong suit and I’m still working to build confidence in it.
As for my team, even small improvements such as being compliant in trainings, clearing our exceptions on time or enjoying team bonding during regionals fill me with pride and reinforce that RCSW truly is the best. One moment that especially resonated with me was during our recent organizational restructuring. We all had to adapt, but clear and consistent communication helped us navigate the changes smoothly.
What would be the theme song to your life? Why?
“Vienna” by Billy Joel. It feels very nostalgic and hopeful. Even in times where I feel like I’m falling behind, it grounds me and makes me think about how there’s still plenty of time left for me to do what I want.
In your role, you are supporting multiple regions and SPMs, how do you stay organized and on top of things?
I think I’ve filled three different notebooks with to-do lists! I’m known for Excel charts, trackers and lots of Post-its. I love data, prioritizing and keeping track or reference points for all that I do. This makes me efficient in my work and helps me to accomplish my day-to-day tasks.
Do you have a moment during your career at Think Together that has really made an impact on you?
My HRG peers, Alfredo and Jordan, and my HRBP boss, Austen, have really made an impact on me whether through training, guidance or development. They inspire me every day and invest in my career growth and working with them is such a pleasure and so much fun! Another impact is the monthly site visits that I go on. It’s nice to go out and see our team and students firsthand. I vividly remember when we visited Indian Hills Elementary. During our visit, one of the students was having a tough and emotional day. Our SPM stepped in to provide calm support and comforted the student. Witnessing that moment in person and seeing the trust students place in our team was a powerful reminder of the difference we make.
If another Thinker took a trip to your region, Riverside Southwest, what is the one local food spot you would take them to? Why?
Lunch time is where we shine! Our FIRST stop is Luna’s Sunday Café at the Moreno Valley Mall for a banana pudding matcha, it is incredible! Then, we’ll go to Juju Bar for the Twilight acai bowl. An honorable mention is The Deli – it’s literally across the street from the Hub and has so many fun pizza options.
Outside of work, what do you do for fun?
I love to go to concerts and festivals and try new coffee shops. I love being around my friends, so I am always dragging them with me. Concerts are my favorite place on earth, I think I’ve seen the pit of the Kia Forum more than my own room. I also love going to the movies and reviewing as I watch. Fun fact: I am an AMC A-list member, and it’s the best.
