Nicole Santoyo

She/Her/Hers

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

It means that I am super thankful for my parent's sacrifices to get me here. I could not have done it without their endless love and support. Being a first-generation college graduate, I will be able to give back to my family and reach my career goals.

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

My proudest moment is being able to graduate from UC San Diego as this was my dream undergrad school. Being able to attend, make lifelong friends, pursue a double major, and graduate are my proudest moments.

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

It will be difficult because everything is so new. For most, it will be the first time they will leave their hometown which is a strange transition. Keep at it! It will be best 4 years. Make sure to get involved because the people are also what makes the experience so great.

• 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?

Sister - Thank you for helping me fill out fafsa, apply to college, convince our parents to let me come to SD, and being my counselor all these years.

Mom & Dad - Thank you for being so supportive, helping me move every year, visiting me every couple weeks while I was in college, & being so great.

Friends - Thank you for making my college experience so memorable.

• 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?

All of my professors and supervisors at UCSD!

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

I plan to work at a full-time research position related to public health/psychology. Then, I plan to get an MPH and PhD in Public Health to eventually become a professor and do research in health promotion.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Research Assistant at UCSD Moores Cancer Center

• Engagement Director for John Muir's Welcome Week Committee

• Data Abstractor at UCSD Autism Center of Excellence