Veronica Lugo

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

Being the first person in my family to have this opportunity and chance to shape my own future is a tremendous blessing and responsibility. I do not take being a first gen college student lightly and I recognize the sacrifices that my parents have had to take to get me here. I stand on the shoulders of my family before me and for me to have a college education means more to me and my family then words could describe.

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

There are so many instances that come to mind. I have several positive academic, personal and friendship experiences that are dear to me. Recently I presented my research data to a group of fellow ESYS seniors and my lab mates and professor. So much anticipation led to that moment and when the time came I felt a sense of relief after having done so much work. The presentation was successful and it was very fulfilling!

• 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 mother who has motivated me with her words and actions deserves biographies and movies dedicated to her. Without her resilience and forever cheerful happy spirit I would not be where I am today. My dad has always been the strongest, most kindest person I know and has taken on so much physical sacrifice for me and my family that I am glad that I now get the opportunity to help him and be a role model for the other younger generations in my family. Also a shout out to my close personal friends; Alyssa, Stacho, David and Cassandra for making me laugh, being there for me day or night and making life joyful.

• 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?

I would like to thank everyone at OASIS TRIO SSSP, all of the pro staff, the peer mentors and fellow students for being a positive, motivating family that has always wanted to see me succeed. They have helped me keep on going and I am grateful to be apart of the TRIO family.

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

I plan on moving back to Los Angeles and finding a job within the environmental sector. Right now I plan on taking a gap year to organize myself and reflect on what it is that I truly see myself being passionate and motivated for. In two years I hope to be in Grad School studying Environmental Conservation.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Director of Terrestrial Ecosystems, Students for Conservation

• Finance Chair, Students of Color for Environmental Justice

Student Retention & Success Programs

• OASIS - TRIO Student Support Services Program