Penelope Mia Garcia

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

It means that this accomplishment is not just mine, but my whole family's. It means that regardless if we are not meant to be at these institutions, we will thrive because we can and we will. This is a celebration for my community and I hope to make them proud.

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

During my fourth year, I was a full-time student, worked two jobs, was a research assistant, was a clinic coordinator for HFiT, and was one of the Co-chairs for HaU. I'm proud of myself because even though I struggled a lot, I was able to get through it and give each thing 100% because I had an amazing support system behind 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?

I want to thank my family for everything, in particular my dad who sacrificed literally everything for me to be able to graduate from college. I could not have done it without my family's support and their belief in me. To all my friends, thank you for making my college experience amazing and for always been a part of my support system.

• 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 who I have been able to meet through HFiT, including the doctors, patients, and other coordinators, always inspired me, humbled me, and instilled in me that I always needed to give back to my community so thank you for grounding me.

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

During my gap years I plan to be a high school biology teacher through TFA while I apply for medical school in a couple of years.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Hermanas Unidas

• Health Frontiers inTijuana

• Career Peer Educator Program

• Research Assistant at the EDC

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Student Success Coaching Program

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Women's Center