Adeline Sov

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

Growth. Perseverance. Patience. I can not emphasize the growth that took place within me in the four years I spend at UCSD. But I do remember the pain and the helplessness and the imposter syndrome that took place within me. It was terrifying, and I never would want anyone to experience that. With a lot of time and patience, what used to scare me turned into my greatest strength - perseverance. I think that is what it means to be a first-generation college graduate. Someone who had to navigate the rough waters of academic, professional, and social life all alone in an environment that is very unfamiliar to them and to be able to come out of it strong and independent and experienced.

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

My proudest moment in UCSD was when I finished my first year in college. It was when I realized that I was actually a student in college taking and passing college classes. College made me realize that I had the potential to become who I wanted to be. I met people who I never thought I would have met, and I participated in classes that high school me could have never dreamed about (like bio labs). The classes I have taken showed me potential careers that are out there and that there are just so many paths that I could take. I realized all of this as I was wrapping up my first year, and it just filled me with hope and passion. I was so proud of the fact that I was actually going somewhere with my future and that I was able to shape it however I want because I decided to go to UCSD to work hard.

• 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 parents are the most influential in my college journey. When I went through a rough time, I always called them or went back home. They were my safe space, my home. I never felt like I did not belong with them. They were there throughout all my breakdowns and all the times I would beat myself up over issues or failures. I thank them so much, and I honestly would not have been able to graduate if it were not for them.

• 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 have two mentors in Trio SSSP who have graduated already. Without them I would not be who I am today, and I definitely would not have a role model to look up to when going through college. Michelle Lara, who used to work with Trio SSSP is also a big influence in my life. When I was down she gave me a lot of advice, one that stuck through with me today and still get me through rough times is to always ask myself "What kind of person do I want to become when I graduate?" I thank you all for being there in my journey. It certainly was not easy, but because of you all, I am who I am today, and I was only able to persevere because of your patience, guidance, and acceptance.

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

After graduating I plan to work for a few years and consider grad school. Since my majors are very diverse I feel I should take time to explore what I would like to do! If I can, I would definitely love to travel and learn more about the world and what it has to offer before settling down.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Chapter Member - Student Alumni Associates

• Director of Development - Phi Sigma Rho

Student Retention & Success Programs

• OASIS - TRIO Student Support Services Program

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Women's Center