Steffany Rodriguez Chavez

She/Hers/Ella

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

I am the first in my family to ever graduate college. I happy to now be able to pave the way for future generations in my family.

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

My proudest moment at UCSD was being able to be a part of a research project at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography under Dr. Jeniffer Taylor's Lab. Under this research project I was able to research the growth and toughness of shrimp under ocean acidification conditions. I am appreciative of also being able to present our contributions and findings at the URC conference 2021.

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

I would say that although it might be scary because no-one in your family can relate to this journey. your hard work and perseverance will pay off once you walk on stage and claim your diploma. We might have to work harder and reach out for help at times pero nomas ponte las pilas and you can achieve whatever you want.

• 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 want to thank my parents for being there for me and supporting me in any way they could and for all their sacrifices. They are my main motivation to keep going and I hope to continue to make you proud.

My best friends Adrianna and Micquela have also been there for me throughout my whole college experience. I am happy to have made amazing and lifelong friends here at UCSD. Love you!!

• 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?

My faculty mentor and lab PI for my ESYS internship, Dr. Jennifer Taylor has been very influential to me throughout my college journey. Thank you for mentoring me on my internship and despite all the obstacles we have faced throughout the year on the Shrimp Team project we were able to gain some great insights on how shrimp are affected under ocean acidification conditions. It was an amazing learning experience!

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

I hope to further my education and get my masters in Marine Biology.

Campus Affiliations

Student Retention & Success Programs

• OASIS - 2Excel

• OASIS - Summer Bridge

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Raza Resource Centro

• Women's Center