Marisol Gonzalez

She/Her/Hers

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

An achievement to be beyond happy. As a first-gen college student the odds are stacked against the first-generation population across any university so to be able to complete my undergrad is an unreal feeling. So for any of my fellow grads or future grads we should be happy no matter what! We achieved this through OUR merit and no one can take that from US!

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

Presenting my research project during a global pandemic at UCSD (virtual) Summer Research Conference ' 20.

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

Do not give up and ask for help! Successful individuals have a strong and supportive teams so do not hesitate in reaching out for help/guidance.

• 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?

Thanks Sacramento, Christian, Daniel,Steven, Evelyn and Jonathan for being the most supportive siblings especially during my time at UCSD.

¡ Gracias Rosa y Sacramento por ser los mejores padres y por apoyarme en todas mis locuras y sueños !

Lastly I want to thank my friends both here at UCSD and back at home for pushing me and supporting me through my wild endeavors. I will remember the fun times we have had these last four years.

• 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?

First I would like to thank everyone in the Ethnic Studies department specifically the Professors and Teaching Assistants that I have had in my journey as a UCSD student. You have been great educators!

Secondly I would like to thank the TRELS Program and the director Tyler Rogers for helping me explore my interest in mathematics. I would also like to thank my mentor DR. Jonathan Novak for being a phenomenal math professor and a great mentor outside of the classroom.

Lastly, and with the utmost gratitude to the Student Success Coaching Program and the staff who have helped me grow and develop into the individual I am today. Thank you Alison, Lindsay, Moises, Stephanie, Tori, Juan Carlos, Maria and Rachel ! My time as a peer coach will not be forgotten and I will cherish my time as a mentor.

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

Getting a masters in Statistics. Then go into the field of data analytics or become a math lecturer at a community college.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Senior Peer Coach , Student Success Coaching Program

• First -Gen Initiative Liaison, First -Gen

• First Gen Alliance Liaison, FGSA

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Academic Enrichment Programs - TRELS

• Student Success Coaching Program