What is your hometown? La Verne, CA

What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? Mt. SAC AA Kinesiology, AA Sociology
CSUN BA Sociology

What motivated you to go to college? I wanted better job security and stability.

Describe your college experience as first-generation. I was fortunate to have met Diana Felix & Elizabeth Estevez, who took me as a younger sister and mentored me on how to navigate college. I had no idea what I was doing, or what it took to complete a degree. They educated me on resources to become a prepared student.

What unique challenges did you face? I suffered from a rare condition which caused me to become legally blind while I was a student. There was no cure or treatment and I struggled in advocating for accommodations as I did not know it applied to me. In addition, I was pressured by family to prioritize traditional duties for a Mexican woman, which led me to neglect my studies.

How did you overcome those challenges? I learned to become my own advocate and seek resources for support. I educated myself on campus services and learned to utilize services. I helped my parents understand how and why I prioritized my studies, which taught them to respect my time and adult life.

What did you advise other first-generation students? It's ok to feel uncomfortable with asking for help, but if you need help, just ask! There is probably support for whatever you are struggling with. Most staff and faculty are happy to help or to direct you to proper resources. We love to see you succeed!