Lost my Dad the first time to gangs & drugs. Watched my momma struggle on welfare. Single-mother raising 3 babies on her own. No education, minimum wage income, but she did it. We lived in our car, we lived with family/friends. Food stamps, 4 of us in one bed, cramped studio. An angel opened her arms to me. Lived with her for my last two years of high school – lived apart from my mom and brothers for 2 years. Got accepted into UCLA. First-generation college student, record high 112,000 applicants and 17% acceptance rate in 2015, and I was one of few who were chosen. Two scholarships granted me a full-ride at UCLA. Started with UCLA’s FSP program, did swell. Started my first quarter, sank a bit. Second year I was on academic probation. Suffered from depression, anxiety, homesickness. Changed my major to study my passion for literature rather than being pressured into the STEM field to pursue medicine – you can be a master of many trades, just let your heart guide you. Third year, successfully off probation, life began to mend together. I decided on Physician Assistant (PA) school after 3 years of battling what others wanted for me versus what I wanted for myself and my happiness. I broke many chains away from me. Then, the most tragic event turned my world upside down. I always thought my father was invincible. I lost my Dad to a bullet. I had grown so strong while feeling so weak. I finished my third year that Spring quarter amidst not wanting to wake up each morning because the pain and tears were so unbearable – I sought God and therapy for healing. I never imagined myself planning, directing, and executing a funeral for my Dad. I cannot even remember what happened over the days of the services because I was in such a daze, a blur, a zombie state. This pain is eternal. Our time on earth is precious and limited – live it, love it, cherish your loved ones. I graduated from the #1 public university in the country. Interned for the #7 nationally ranked hospital. Connected with so many amazingly successful people. Discovered a world of wealth and privilege that I will soon develop for my family. Fruitful opportunities – crème of the crop experiences. I am grateful for all the love and support that has kept me motivated – emotionally, physically, mentally, financially. You know who you all are, and I thank God for bringing you into my life! The end to this undergraduate chapter at UCLA does not mean life gets any easier. Challenges will continue, but I will gracefully accept them. My Dad is always here with me, I feel him everywhere. God is always on my side & yours even when it may not seem like it.
I am a proud Bruin. Born and raised in Whittier, CA. Thank you UCLA, for transforming me into this woman and preparing me for the bigger plans that are destined for me.