Sebastian David Cuevas

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

Being a First-Generation College Graduate means so much to me as it helps break the cycle that has affected my family tree for so many generations. It establishes for myself and my lineage that we are intelligent and capable of anything as long as we receive the necessary support and persevere through the struggles.

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

My proudest moment at UCSD is my time spent in the summer program "Creating Scientists to Address Cancer Disparities Program" in which I was able to spend eight weeks working under a mentor alongside other first-generation college students consisting of freshman and transfers. It was a great summer where I got to learn more about independent research while receiving guidance from professionals on how to create a research presentation before presenting my findings at a educational cancer conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

• 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 family and friends have always been my biggest supporters throughout my entire journey through college. Whether they have been my family since birth or I just met them less than a year ago, they all treat me with so much care and respect that I feel encouraged to finish college not just on my behalf, but for their sake as well.

• 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?

The people at UCSD who have been the most influential throughout my college journey are all of my friends who I've met. They have kept me motivated to continue my time away from home in San Diego while also providing a lot of support in developing me into the person I am today.

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

After graduating I plan to continue working in the Moore's Cancer Center to further develop my research skills while studying for the GRE. My long-term goal is to receive my Master's in Public Health from UCSD to continue my cancer research experience.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Muir College Council

• Health & Wellness Advocate

• ASCE Representative

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Triton Transfer Hub

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Intertribal Resource Center