Xavier Alexis Perez

He/Him/His

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

Being a first-generation college graduate for me means being a role model for my siblings, friends, family, and all of those that aspire to be university graduates. My humble origins have shaped me to adapt quickly in order to succeed. The beautiful country of El Salvador is where I was born and raised for the first nine years of my life. Coming from a financially challenged family and community has contributed to shape my dreams and aspirations. Learning English was a challenge, I read children’s books and translated every word from English to Spanish. Nevertheless, through endless hours of studying I overcame the challenge. This goes on to show that anything is possible when you put your mind into it and make the time to achieve it.

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

My past experiences laid the foundation for me to get involved in campus organizations. I have had the opportunity to be involved in campus outreach and professional development events through several organizations. I have been able to volunteer as a tutor, interpreter, and mentor of other students and adults in Spanish, English, Math, and Engineering courses. In exchange, this led to the most influential engineering experience I have had. I have developed and translated an engineering course curriculum in full to teach engineering concepts to younger students in Tijuana, Mexico working alongside the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). Experiencing the kids' excitement as I introduced engineering to them for the first time highly contributed to my motivation to pursue research and a postgraduate education. Consequently, I decided to apply to the highly selective UC LEADS program which only accepts 5 students out of the entire sophomore class. I was given the opportunity to join the program and was provided funding to begin my research journey through the STARS program.

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

If you ever feel like giving up, not smart enough, or not capable of doing something know that you can accomplish anything that you set your mind to and take the time to do. Do not give up. Nothing is impossible. You can do it! I know you can.

• 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?

I would like to dedicate this accomplishment to my family, loved ones, coaches, mentors, and all of those who have supported me throughout my academic journey. This is for you. All of those that know me, know how hard I have worked for everything that I have achieved. Nothing was given. Coming to the U.S. without speaking a word of English to graduating from UC San Diego with an Engineering degree as a UC LEADS and ACES Scholar remains significant. A huge thank you to everyone that supported me and believed in me. UCSD Class of 2021 We Made It!!!

• 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?

A huge thank you to Muir College Provost Wayne as well as my PI Vikash Gilja for believing in me and supporting me. I would not be here without you. Thank you for advocating for me and thank you for your continuous support!

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

I am ready and fully committed to pursuing my doctoral studies. When I see engineering, experimentation, and presentation of science I only see excitement. I am fully aware of the critical, life-long learning skills an engineer is trained with: problem solving abilities, teamwork, creativity, and critical thinking just to mention some. After a long journey to study Electrical Engineering, I dream of turning some of my engineering ideas into real-world, self-sufficient commonwealth solutions. I aspire to continue delving into the fascinating world of science and pursue a PhD in Electrical Engineering. After careful thought, long conversations, and consideration of various offers I have just accepted UC San Diego’s Electrical Engineering with emphasis in Medical Devices and Systems (MDS) PhD program offer. My journey in academia as a student and as an undergraduate researcher have provided me with a strong foundation in engineering. I am confident that pursuing a graduate degree at UC San Diego will open many more doors to achieve my long-range professional goals of becoming a professor, researcher, or engineer at NASA.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• UC LEADS

• Summer Training Academy for Research Success (STARS)

• Academic Community for Engineering Success (ACES)

• Summer Engineering Institute (SEI)

• Sixth Residential Life Office Intern

• Bright Prospect

• Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar (HSF)

• Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Academic Enrichment Programs - TRELS

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Raza Resource Centro