Lacey Michelle Stockton

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

It means the world. To be able to accomplish and persevere even when times were not always in my favor, it feels good. If I can do it, anyone can and I want to be a role model for my baby sister.

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

My proudest moment from my time at UCSD was being able to write my first policy brief on a topic that I am immensely passionate about. This is a step into the future I want to pursue.

• 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 husband has been extremely supportive in my journey. I don’t think I would have gotten through it without him. He has taken on things when I’ve juggled a busy schedule and always did it without a complaint. I love you beyond words. My family has also been such a huge support, with everyone cheering me on and talking me through days when I was having mental breakdowns. I do this all for you. I thank you and love you so much.

• 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?

There are a few professors that have inspired me through the way. To name a few, professor Nancy Postero, professor Patrick Patterson, and professor Mark Young from Warren academic writing. As well as Nancy T. who was my TA in Human Rights 101, who was always beyond encouraging and deeply involved in my success. I am appreciative that I was able to learn from them and will take everything with me into my next chapter. You all have been influential in the work you do and especially in how you teach. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! You have made an everlasting impression in my heart!

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

After graduation I hope to apply to graduate school to pursue my Masters. I will also be volunteering with my favorite organization, Survivors of Torture International.