Laurel Jackson

She/Hers

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

Being a first-generation college graduate means that I was able to use the differences in my background as strengths rather than faults. It means I made my family proud.

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

My proudest moment at UCSD was seeing improvement in my academic performance over time.

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

YOU are not a failure for failing a class; be proud of how far you've come and have confidence in how far you will still go.

• 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 friends, roommates, and sisters have all helped me through the rough times and day to day drum here at UCSD and I am forever thankful. My family has been so supportive of my journey from home; while they might not have been with me every day, I would not be here today without all of their love and support.

• 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 incredibly lucky that my supervisors, Scott Driscoll and Tim Wheeler, were so helpful throughout my college experience. I worked with Mail Services throughout my four years here and they provided incredible flexibility and support that truly allowed me to be a successful student employee.

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

My post-grad plans are to find peace and happiness in whatever endeavors I should discover.