Maria Vera Torres

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

It is very empowering and I want this to also help the women in my family feel empowered too.

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

Before the start of my first winter quarter I had the first death in my family. It affected me a lot and I became severely depressed. I tried to continue to study like before but I could not handle the work load. I ended up having to drop my genetics class and I felt horrible. Then this past winter quarter I took genetics again and I received an A. I felt so proud because I struggled so much the first time I took this class but it was mainly because of my depression and what was going on in my life at the time. So I can proudly say I received an A for my angel named April.

• 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 would like to thank my sister Jenny for always helping me have a place to study and for helping me throughout my entire journey through college. Even when I wanted to give up you helped me gather the courage to keep going. I love you and I cannot express how much I appreciate your presence in my life. Thank you for always fighting for me and for helping me. I would also like to thank my boyfriend Saba. You have been so considerate and patient with my stress over exams and have always offered me a place where I can study and focus. You have helped me, motivated me, and I love you for that. I would also like to thank my niece Aurora. I helped raise you while I was going through college. I would have you sleeping in my arms while I read my textbooks. The thought of helping you and your mom have a better life motivated me to try and work harder. So this degree that I am getting is thanks to you, your mom, and Saba. Oh! and my dogs :D

• 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 all of the CASP staff because they made me feel welcomed and helped me whenever I needed help. That entire staff is the best!

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

My short-term plan is to find a decent job so I can help my family. In the long-term I would like to eventually go to graduate school and hopefully have a good job that is involved in research.

Campus Affiliations

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Chancellor's Associates Scholars Program (CASP)