Katia Talamantez

She/Her/Hers/Ella

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

Being a first-generation college graduate to me means breaking barriers that were placed on generations before me. It means being able to pursue higher education with the full support of my family and friends, knowing the struggles that I would come into contact with and overcoming them.

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

My proudest moment was volunteering with Interaxon at UCSD to teach K-12 students in under-served communities about neuroscience. I value this experience of sharing knowledge to curious minds and inspiring young students to pursue higher education.

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

My advice for future first-generation students is to not give up at the first sign of failure or rejection. We are a resilient group and will come out on top as long as we persevere through the toughest moments. Also, I would say to not be afraid to go out there and use the resources offered to you, they are there to help enrich your experience! Lastly, make sure to surround yourself with friends and family to make you laugh or when you need advice.

• 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 close family and friends have been there to cheer me on and I am forever grateful. To my parents for their continuous support and sacrifices, it does not go unnoticed and I am thankful. To the friends, coworkers, and mentors I've met throughout my journey at UCSD, you've shaped my experience to be a positive one and I value every one of you. Thank you for the memories!

• 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 OASIS and TCLI for the opportunity to meet some of my closest friends and for providing supportive mentors to help me navigate college. It was nice to feel a sense of community throughout my college journey and create life long bonds.

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

After graduation, I will be working full-time as a Research Assistant at Velocity Clinical Research where we are currently focusing on vaccine efficacy. I plan to apply to graduate school in the next few years to pursue a degree in neuropsychology.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Co-External Vice President and Publicist, Interaxon at UCSD

• Student Affairs Assistant, NanoEngineering Department;

• Student Usher, ArtPower at UCSD

• Undergraduate Research Assistant, Dr. Ayers Lab

• Participant, Discover the Law Program;

• Participant, iLead Program

Student Retention & Success Programs

• OASIS - 2Excel

• OASIS - Summer Bridge

• Triton Community Leadership Institute (TCLI)

Cultural and Resource Centers

• Raza Resource Centro,

• Women's Center