Magaly Sosa

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

It means going through things alone for now but knowing it will be worth it in the end when the doors are opened for my family. It's difficult when no one else in your family understands the struggles you're having. But I know my family is supporting me however they can. And I know I am breaking down barriers for generations down the line. It gives me the strength to keep fighting.

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

My proudest moment has been participating in outreach events with a Latinx organization I was involved with. I led a workshop for MEChA's high school conference where I was able to share about my experience as a first-generation college student. It was so wonderful to see all the high school students from underrepresented backgrounds participating. I hope they were encouraged to pursue higher education just as I was when I did the same exact conference when I was in high school. It felt so empowering to bring everything full circle.

• 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 entire family for always believing in me. When I doubted myself, you never did. I knew I could keep fighting and I couldn't let you all down. I wouldn't have made it here without you.

• 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'd like to thank the Raza Resource Centro for always being a space I could go to. I'd especially like to thank the staff for working so hard to create a welcoming space and constantly putting on events to keep us educated and uplifted.

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

I will be attending graduate school here at UCSD. I am part of the School of Global Policy and Strategy's B.A./M.I.A. program, which has been a challenging but interesting experience. I hope to take everything I'm learning into the public sector and do meaningful work with the federal government.

Campus Affiliations

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Raza Resource Centro