Michelle Castro-Pilar

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

Being a First-Generation Graduate means that I have built a foundation for my family to feel supported and I truly share my accomplishments with them. Being first-gen may be hard to navigate, but by graduating I have proved to myself that anything is possible! Although I may not have been the most active student on campus, I know my hardships and experiences have the ability to connect with and inspire future graduates.

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

My proudest moment at UC San Diego is completing my independent research project for the Urban Studies and Planning Program. It was the first time I felt that I was in control of my learning and gave me a new perspective about community issues that are important to me.

• 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?

My mom has never stopped motivating me throughout my journey. Although I was 500 miles away, when my family came to visit it was always so refreshing to see their faces! Thank you for supporting me. Thank you for being there for me, especially during my downs. And I hope you all know you are the reason I came back up.

• 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?

During my first two years, my former success coach (James Carranza) was the most positive, motivational, and forward person through my college journey. I always looked forward to our meetings because I knew that I was being pushed to discover and reflect on my own life and the trajectory of my future career. James was thoughtful and kind and trusted my own processes, even when I changed my major. Thank you for showing me the ropes. Your words and support mean the world!

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

In the long term, I plan to go to graduate school for Urban Policy or Architecture. But in the meantime, I hope that my time lost with family can finally be made up when I get a job and settle to start my own life! Being away from family was so hard, so I hope to take a trip to see them soon!

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Office Assistant at The Early Academic Outreach Program

• First-Year Experience Discussion Leader

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Student Success Coaching Program