Dalja Parks

She/Her/Hers

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

Being a first generation college grad is such an accomplishment. It not only proves my character but also shows how hard my parents worked to give me this accomplishment. Getting through college strengthened my determination, resilience, and has opened the door to so many opportunities that my parents worked to give me. Being a first gen grad gives me purpose and a goal to continue for the rest of my career.

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

My proudest moment at UCSD is graduating! It took a lot for me to finish in 4 years especially given what I have had to deal with health wise and with the pandemic. For all of you that know me, you know that my time at UCSD was non-traditional. I spent the first quarter on campus before having to move off campus needing brain surgery. I continued taking my classes and simultaneously went through chemotherapy. Because I was off campus, I commuted via the coaster where I met so many awesome people! I worked, I started an organization, and I became a residential assistant for freshman given the pandemic and all that I had to go through. Because of this, I say attending, and finishing with a solid GPA is my proudest moment at UCSD.

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

Stay determined! College is hard and it's especially hard when you are the first one going through it. You will have wins and a whole lot more losses during your academic career, but what I realized is that as long as you have a goal in mind and understand its importance to you, you will finish strong and succeed:)

• 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, church, friends, and my all time #1 supporter and friend Jesus Christ have been my rock during my 4 year journey at UCSD. Without their constant support and guidance, I would probably have given up much sooner. These amazing people, their smiles, their positive attitude, and their beliefs kept me focused on my purpose and my goals and therefore got me through college

• 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?

1) Dr.Eduardo Fricovsky has been such a blessing to have as someone to ask all the questions that I have. Being first gen, applying to medical school is such a foreign topic. With Dr. Fricovsky's help, I have been given guidance and support in this long journey. Dr.Fricovsky leads by example and his service to others has motivated me to do the same

2) Dr.Elaine Tanaka has been a great resource for me since I emailed her in desperation for some guidance my second year at UCSD. I was semi lost in my courses and medical school application process when I reached out to Dr.Tanaka only to find out how awesome she really is! She brought way more than just guidance! Dr.Tanaka has been super influential in my organization that I founded that teaches high schoolers the importance of equitable education and health care. Dr.Tanaka has also given me countless advice and has reminded me why I want to go into medicine

3) My RA supervisor: Rubia Hernandez has been such a light this last year of mine. Being on campus during the pandemic was hard and isolating but going on 1-1 walks with Rubia and her dog Bagel was always a bright moment in my day. Not to mention the awesome character of Rubia that continues motivating me to stay strong in my academic journey. Rubia continues making me a stronger role model for others and for myself!

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

I am currently applying to medical school to start in the fall of 2022! During my gap year, I will be working as a physical therapy aide and volunteering in the Pacific Beach Free clinic.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Revelle RA

• Supplemental Instructor at the TLC

• Co-Founder of Student Advocates for Interdisciplinary Learning

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Student Success Coaching Program