Viviana Araceli Dominguez

She/Hers/Ella

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

It's been a disorienting and challenging experience as I've tried to navigate and learn the ropes of how to succeed in the university system. I've experienced imposter syndrome throughout my entire undergraduate experience and I've felt it more so as a transfer student at UCSD. Being the only person to graduate from college in my family creates a lot of pressure onto me to succeed and lead the way for the rest of my family members so I am very proud to have finished my studies. Being first-gen represents the change and fortitude within myself to take on life's challenges.

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

My proudest moment was being accepted into the McNair Program during my first quarter at UCSD. As an aspiring research scientist, having the opportunity to conduct research at a top-tier university such as UC San Diego has been very humbling and invigorating for me. I understand that having research experience is the key to success in the career field that I desire so I was so excited and happy to have been able to participate in such a program to help me develop my skills and improve myself.

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

My advice is to be resourceful and know who to ask for help. Then go ask for help when you need it.

• 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 family has been my largest group of supporters on my academic journey. It's been so hard to not spend time with them or help out around the house due to how intense and chaotic my schedule can be during the school year. Despite not being able to see me or spend time with me, my family has always offered encouraging words to me and cheered on my accomplishments. I work hard for them and I wouldn't be where I am today without them at my side.

• 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?

Dr. Matthew Herbst, Dr. Thomas Brown, and Dr. Matthew Daugherty have all been influential to my time at UC San Diego. They have all encouraged me to pursue new opportunities and lent me support during my times of need throughout my course studies, research, COVID, and more. I appreciate all of their hard work and support.

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

Short-term, I hope to learn and excel within my PREP program at BU before reapplying to graduate schools in the upcoming cycle. Long-term, I hope to be working in research and spending more time with my family.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Research Volunteer in the Daugherty Lab

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Academic Enrichment Programs - McNair Fellowship

• Triton Transfer Hub

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Raza Resource Centro

• Women's Center