Arianna Zavala

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

It means being the first in my family to say "si se puede". It means being able to show my younger sisters that going to college is achievable, it will be difficult but I will always be there to support them throughout this journey. Graduating is such a big moment for myself but mainly my family, it means I get to show my parents that all their hard work and dedication to give me the chance to go to college has paid off. It also means a better life for me and my family, I can finally give back to my parents and support them.

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

I've had very many proud moments at UCSD, but I would say that my proudest moment is when my Senior research thesis was posted on our Global Health website. This may seem very minor to most but, to me it represented all the work I have been doing these past 4 years. Each class and assignment has gotten me to where I am now and seeing how far I've come academically to my final research project brought me so much joy and appreciation for all the work I was able to do. It was also more meaningful to show my family that this is what I've been working so hard to achieve.

• 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 have always provided me with the love and support to keep pushing even when times are tough and I wouldn't be where I am if it weren't for them. I owe my family everything.

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

My plan after graduating is to find a job that I love to do, hopefully in social work and go back to get my Masters in Social Work.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Chairman - UCSD Public Health Brigades

• Resident Advisor - ERC Residential Life Office

• Raza's MaRa

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Student Success Coaching Program

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Raza Resource Centro