Jocelyn Aguilar

• What does being a First-Generation College Graduate mean to you?

Being a First-Generation College Graduate means strength. It means I had the strength passed down to pursue my goals. The strength of a support system that my family wanted me to be aware of during my journey. It means strength is within the mind of those seeking educated in a system not always meant for underrepresented communities. The strength I had to commit to four years for a degree.

• What is your proudest moment from your time at UCSD?

My proudest moment at UCSD was creating a support system that taught me what it means to present, resilient and open minded. I can say that having that support system from staff and friends pushed me to study abroad. I can say that I am proud of having people push me to take my studies for the summer overseas.

• Who are the family members, friends or loved ones who have been most influential throughout your college journey? Are there any words of gratitude you would like to share with them?

To my family thank you for always helping me move from Inglewood to San Diego more times than I can remember. To my mom you showed me what it meant to be outspoken and a powerful woman. I advocated for myself and others because of you. I thrive at school because my family had given me the tools so that I can be at a four year university. My friends have taught me what it means to have meaningful conversations. I thank each and every one of you there to take me to explore San Diego nightlife. The college journey at UCSD is one for the books and I want to continue to show my gratitude as I cherish this moment with every one. The degree says my name but my family and friends framed it.

• Who are the staff, faculty or mentors who have been most influential throughout your college journey? Are there any words of gratitude you would like to share with them?

Throughout my college journey, I want to thank my college advisor Sophia at Marshall. She was very attentive and made sure I knew I was supported in my academics. She assisted me with a plan to graduate in 4 years by making sure I had the classes I needed. Another person I want to give thanks is Karen Van Ness from CASP. She gave me the tools to be a peer mentor. She was always there to listen and take in information to make the space more helpful for other students. Karen is always present and very influential in my growth as a resource for others peers.

• What do you plan or hope to do after graduating?

I plan to work on giving that peer mentorship in community centers. I hope to have new experiences in providing resources and advice to individuals. I plan to purse a masters and hope that I continue to thrive in my passion of counseling folk.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• External Chair For Central Americans Raising Awareness in Solidarity (C.A.R.A.S.)

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Chancellor's Associates Scholars Program (CASP)

• OASIS - SummerBridge

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Raza Resource Centro

• Women's Center