Erik Anthony Landi

He/Him

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

Being a first-generation college student is not only for me but for my family. For my grandfather(s) Jose and Juan and my grandmother(s) Lucy and Maria emigrated to this country (and relocated from Texas) and more specifically to California, and to give this gift of graduating from the school that bears this state’s name is humbling and beautiful. From my father’s side, my aunt Debbie played an important role shaping my education, urging me to press forward to study my passions. For my uncle Robert, he gave me the ability to be a true pro at my craft, his excellence was something I always strived to emulate. For my mother Piedad, you gave me the gift strength, how to be vulnerable and endless emotional support to re-enroll at UCSD even when I did not believe in myself. My father William, you gave me gift of wonder, the ability to separate my emotions from my reality to keep myself focused and the tools of problem solving. For my older brothers (technically uncles) Andrew, Beto, and Luis, you took me under your wing, showed me how to be comfortable in my own skin, enjoy the fruits of life, family, and music. My older sisters (technically aunts) Patty, Beatty, Donjai, and Maribel you are my fiercest protectors, you care for me like no other and exclaim how proud of me you all are. To all my family, my love and my thanks can’t express how much you all mean to me. This is for you.

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

My proudest moment at UCSD was the day I re-applied to finish my degree Spring of 2016. I knew I could not continue the breakneck pace of 3 classes a day and 30 hour per week at my semiconductor internship, so I decided to go part-time and was re-admitted. The support of my parents, managers, professors, and the advising staff allowed me to work at my own pace gaining valuable work experience while taking 2 classes.

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

Try not to get too discouraged or overwhelmed by the enormity of the University System. Ask for help, use the on-campus resources like CAPS and OASIS to help guide you through this awesome opportunity. Don’t be afraid to fail, and if you feel like the degree program, you’re in is not for you, don’t hesitate to change your major. Lastly, get your degree for yourself, let all the external pressure and forces give way to what’s most important to you.

• 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?

In addition to my family that was mentioned above, I just want to give my deepest thanks to my friends (Robert Landry, Sam Irizary, John Castro, Donovan Stauder), podcasting partners, previous companions, and my extended family. I hope I make you all proud and reward the loyalty you have bestowed upon me. I have truly been blessed to meet all the wonderful people on campus and run into friends from the past as well. It’s been an incredible ride that I could have not done without all of 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?

I would like to thank the advising staff at Sixth College for all their incredible work they do guiding young adults through life and their educational careers. I would also like to thank the Financial Aid Staff for all their work, helping me to navigate the sea of school financials and aid. Last but not least, I would like to thank the International Studies Advising staff, ever since I switched majors, they’ve guided me step by step in the process of obtaining this degree.

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

As it turns out working and going to school does have some slight advantages. I was able to leverage my time as an Engineering Intern into a full career in Technical Marketing for an RF systems company. Using my engineering knowledge and passion for business communications I think this opportunity will be the launching pad for future success. The company has offices across the globe with assets in Asia, Europe and America which will involve a lot of travel and exploration! I hope to find the love of my life at some point, have a family and finish a master’s degree.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Engineering Internships at Peregrine Semiconductor and Renesas Electronics