Education:
B.A. in Sociology, University of California, Berkeley
How did you get here?
I’m originally from Los Angeles and transferred to U.C. Berkeley as a first-generation college student hoping to pursue a degree in Sociology. As an undergraduate, I worked as a conversion specialist for DSP’s Alternative Media, a peer advisor for the Department of Sociology, and was a mentor for NavCal, a field study course committed to supporting students from non-traditional backgrounds as they acclimate to the campus culture. This led to my participation in the Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program (URAP) researching barriers to employment for those formerly incarcerated. These experiences have helped to solidify my personal and scholarly commitment to pursue efforts that foster personal and academic growth in these spaces.
What is your approach to advising?
Support, mentor, and empower. I believe in being intentional with my words, actions, and listening to ensure that students know their concerns are being advocated for and their personal and academic successes are acknowledged. I hope to encourage all students to find perspective in their unique history, and be able to recognize their story as a source of empowerment. I look forward to providing the space and appropriate guidance for all students to proactively and positively build upon their experiences and interactions throughout their academic journey.
What’s the best class(es) you’ve ever taken?
The best classes I have ever taken is Social Theory and Social Movements & Political Action. These classes have not only deepened my understanding of the inequalities and injustices that plague our society⏤ they have also provided me the knowledge and necessary tools to go beyond the scope of limitations and critically engage with people to create and implement social change that is transformative and unprecedented. s/o to Laleh and Muller!
What advice do you have for L&S students in general?
My advice to L&S students would be to immerse yourself in all that is UC Berkeley networks, resources, and communities. There is an opportunity to find/create a shared space that is meant for relating to and progressing with one another and to bridge gaps that once seemed impossible. I hope that students will learn and embrace the pursuit of their potential, the strength in community, the power in outreach, the importance of utilizing resources/support.
