Joanna Truong

She/Hers

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

Being the first in my family to take risk and step outside of my comfort zone.

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

Being able to make many connections and friends who have constantly supported me throughout the past 4 years whether it was to go out and discover different organizations, applying for leadership positions, and even off campus opportunities to develop new skills and experiences.

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

Don't be afraid to ask for help from others. They were once in your shoes.

• 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?

To my family: I am so grateful for the support you have given me and always reassured me that no matter how difficult things may be, I am always doing my best and I am fully capable of overcoming them.

To my hometown besties Carmen, Karin, and Melody: no matter how far we are, we always make time for each other whether it is in person or even through text messages, it would always give me a lot of strength to push through and I always enjoy sending each other positive messages and funny memes.

To my housemates: thank you for keeping me sane and giving me many memories to remember. I will miss the chaos, funny moments, and the house dinners we had together.

• 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?

To my mentor Annie, I am so glad I messaged you when I first came to UCSD and I am so thankful for all the advice you have given me related to academics, extracurriculars, and even personal life stuff. I am so grateful that our relationship turned into a beautiful friendship.

To my CKI Big Jack, we spent a lot of time together my first two years along with everyone else in our group and I always felt like whenever we hung out it was always a safe space. Even though you are busy with your full time job, you were always a message away and I could come to you whenever I had any issues.

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

Landing a full time job, work for a few years and maybe pursue a masters degree after.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• AOD Lead

• Student Health Advocates (SHA)