Barbara Vargas

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

Being a first generation graduate means putting into effect the hard work and sacrifices my family made for me to have this opportunity. It means creating a new cycle with new and exciting opportunities and having the ability to help others to do the same.

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

My proudest moment at UCSD was having the opportunity to present my research project to the UCSD community.

• 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 Mom and Dad have continuously sacrificed so much so that I could have the opportunity to continue my education, and there are no words that I could say to express how thankful I am for everything that they have done for me. Mom, Dad you are my pillars of strength. Thank you for giving me your support and believing in me even when I didn't. I love you, and I will continue to work hard to make you proud.

• 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?

Christine Alvarado and Deian Stefan are two of the people at UCSD that have been the most influential throughout my college journey. Professor Alvarado is not only an incredible CS professor but an inspiring mentor through the ERSP program. I would like to thank her for all her advice and insight as well as helping me become a confident woman in stem. Professor Stefan was my research mentor and I would like to thank him for all of his support, patience, and encouragement. I am extremely grateful for both of you, you helped me feel like I belonged and that I was capable of achieving my dreams.

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

I plan to continue my education by working towards a masters in computer science.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Student Foundation, Early Research Scholars Program