What is your hometown? Santa Ana

What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? Santa Ana College- AA in Liberal Arts
UC Irvine- B.A. in English
CSULB- M.S. in Counseling Option in Student Development in Higher Education

What motivated you to go to college? My Parents! They immigrated from Mexico in hopes for a better life and one thing they always told us was that one thing no one can take away from you is your education.

Describe your college experience as first-generation. My experience was challenging but rewarding at the same time knowing that despite the challenges, I was still able to go above and beyond in my education.

What unique challenges did you face? Lack of college access/ exposure in my K-12 settings, financial aid and confidence.

How did you overcome those challenges? All of the wonderful counselors, professors and mentors that guided me and believed in me when I felt like it was becoming too overwhelming. They inspired me both personally and professionally!

What did you advise other first-generation students? Don't be afraid to ask for help! There are wonderful people here at Mt. SAC waiting to help you whether it is personal, educational or professional!