Alicea Arroyo

She/Hers/Ella

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

Being a first-generation college graduate is representative of the actions my family, including past generations, took that allowed me to pursue this opportunity. I wouldn't have been here without their work, especially the efforts of my grandparents and parents. My being a first-generation college graduate means that future generations of my family will have an experience to guide them through college as well. This experience taught me that any challenge, no matter how difficult it may seem, is surmountable for me and anyone.

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

Gaining a cancer therapeutics research internship, memorizing campus lol, and most of all refining my time management skills so I can take better care of myself overall

• What advice do you have for current or future first-generation students?

Ask questions and get to know all resources available to you as early as possible! They might not be stated clearly on a website or other source of information but getting to know them early on will set you up for success.

• 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?

The support of my family and loved ones is the main reason I have been able to progress through college . Knowing that they are always rooting for me has kept me motivated. When I felt like doing this for myself wasn't enough, the thought of accomplishing this for my loved ones is what pushed me to continue. Their words of encouragement, check ins, and overall hardcore support were integral to my success and always lifted me up. I am forever grateful!

I would like to thank my parents: Riki and Cindy, my grandparents: Lolo Pogi and Mama Myrna, as well as other family members: Kiana, Takeo, Aunty Kimmy, Uncle Jonathan, and Aunty Rachel for all of their support. This is for you guys!! <3

• 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?

The community as UCSD has been the most influential. Support through relationships with others, whether from orgs, class, or otherwise ( AKA my friends :) ), has been vital to my success at this school. In moments of high stress, they were the grounding and motivating force. They also were a source of fun - an important reminder while tending to responsibilities. We have cultivated countless memories through late night/all the time study sessions, san diego explorations, concerts, and much more. They have made the college experience truly unforgettable and I'm grateful for every one of them.

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

I plan to work in a research lab for at least a year, before possibly pursuing a Masters.