What is your hometown? Oxnard, CA

What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? Ventura College - AA-T in Communications
UC Berkeley - B.A. Mass Communications/Media Studies
USC - M.Ed. Educational Counseling (degree not earned)
CSU Los Angeles - M.S. Rehabilitation Counseling, Emphasis on Higher Education Counseling, Emphasis on Clinical Counseling

What motivated you to go to college? The lack of access to an education in my home country motivated me to make sure I earned my education in this country.

Describe your college experience as first-generation. It has been surrounded by obstacles but also by amazing individuals who have helped me overcome all of those obstacles. I have earned an amazing, supportive community throughout my journey and I think that beats any struggles I have faced. Every single struggle or obstacle comes with a lesson to learn and I have grown immensely from those experiences as well.

What unique challenges did you face? I faced the challenge of not knowing what college was, what I could do in it, and if it would be possible for me to earn any degrees. As an Undocumented student, I began college before the CA DREAM Act, so I had no idea how I would pay for my education. I did not even know I could transfer, until I transferred.

How did you overcome those challenges? I just kept believing, advocating for myself, asking for help and asking a lot of questions. I made myself vulnerable to those who helped me and that helped me.

What did you advise other first-generation students? Every obstacle comes with lessons, and no obstacle is bigger than your dreams. Ask questions, ask for help, ask, ask, ask!