Bianca Yesenia Bonwell

She/Hers/Ella

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

Being a first-generation college graduate means fulfilling both my own dreams and the dreams of my family. Being able to graduate from UC San Diego and receive a higher education is an opportunity that not everyone is able to experience, and it is something that I will always be grateful for and appreciate. It means that I am setting a new path for myself that will open so many opportunities that were not available to my family before me.

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

My proudest moment is graduating from UC San Diego. This is an opportunity that I would have not been able to experience if it were not for my family always supporting me, and so I am proud to be a first-generation college graduate and be able to experience this moment with those who have been with me along my journey.

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

Don't let fear control your life. No matter what obstacles may come your way, overthinking and worrying will only hold you back. Challenge and push yourself and don't let anything or anyone hold you back because you are capable of anything and everything.

• 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 been the most influential throughout my college journey as well as my entire life. No matter how grown up I get, they continue to support me and be by my side. I owe them the world for giving me the best life and for pushing me to break the pattern and pursue a college education. I am also grateful for the rest of my family for always supporting me and loving me as I have grown, and I am grateful that I can share this special memory with them.

• 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 am grateful to Professor Emma Geller because her final message that she gave to her PSYC 105 class this past fall has truly made an impact on me. Although she didn't know it was my last year, her words left an impact on me and I will forever be grateful for her caring and honest ways of teaching. I am also grateful to all of the professors that I have had throughout my four years at UC San Diego because they have all provided me with an education that I will forever be grateful for.

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

After graduating, I hope to continue this new journey that I am on and help children. I hope to work with children who may be struggling with mental illness or special needs, and I hope that I can make a positive impact on their lives that can follow and assist them throughout their lives.