Jennifer Harrison

She/Her/Ella

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

Being a first-generation college graduate is a reflection of all the hard-work and sacrifice that my ancestors provided for me. I am proud to carry on their legacy to keep pushing future generations for success.

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

I am most proud of being a founding sister of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc Eta Gamma Chapter.

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

I would encourage first-gen students to seek as many educational, professional, and personal development opportunities as possible. Understand that many students are in the same boat and are discovering college the same as you. Don’t be afraid to talk to people and ask for help.

• 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?

Family, friends, and fellow Biology majors have greatly helped me through this journey. I am super thankful of all the physical and mental support from 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?

My Principal Investigators, Dr. Karen Oegema, Dr. Arshad Desai, and Dr. Enfu Hui have pushed me to become the best scientist I could be, and gave me the tools and confidence to commit to graduate school.

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

This Fall 2021 I will be attending Yale University for a PhD program in the Molecular Medicine, Pharmacology, and Physiology Track. I plan to study cancer biology and discover new treatment options for the disease.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Lambda Theta Alpha Founder and Vice President

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Student Success Coaching Program

• Tri-Alpha (Alpha Alpha Alpha) First-Generation Honor Society

• Student Veterans Resource Center

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Raza Resource Centro

• Women's Center