What is your hometown? Hacienda Heights, CA

What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? CSU Fullerton: B.S. In Public Health
Azusa Pacific University - College Counseling & Student Development

What motivated you to go to college? The idea that I would able to help and support my family. To make my parents proud.

Describe your college experience as first-generation. I experience many up-and-downs during my undergraduate journey.

What unique challenges did you face? The lack of knowledge of existing resources prevented me from fully taking advantage of the academic and social benefits of higher education. I also felt overwhelmed and my mental health declining.

How did you overcome those challenges? During my last year, I got involved on campus. Through my involvement, I gained support and learned more about what the campus has to offer. I also sought help from the campus Counseling & Psychological Services to learn strategies to better my mental health.

What did you advise other first-generation students? Always advocate for yourself. Reach out to everyone you know when you need something. Someone has the answer. There are always resources available, so make sure you leave no stone unturned.