Karen Mendez

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

Being a first generation college graduate means so much to me because I am making my family proud. All the sacrifices and hard work my family has made throughout the generations have allowed me to have this opportunity and it not just an accomplishment for myself but for the entire family.

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

Getting accepted and graduating, being the first member of my family to attend a University was my proudest moment and now graduating is my proudest moment at UCSD.

• 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?

Most influential people throughout my journey has been my loved ones my family, boyfriend and friends. Any time I was having a hard time I was reminded of how amazing it was going to feel to get my degree. I was never told I couldn't do it. I have been very blessed with a ton of support throughout the years.

• 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?

People most influential to me have been the faculty although it is hard to make real connection due to the large student to professor ratio. Overall I feel like I have gotten grate advise and motivation from each one of them.

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

I hope to obtain a full time career in the field of biology and prepare for graduate school.