In high school, I didn’t know how to pursue higher education. As a first-generation college student, I didn’t understand the processes and systems that provide access to higher education. Enrolling in community college allowed me to restart my dreams and pursue transferring to UCLA to study neuroscience. Along the way, I met countless mentors and friends in the transfer community who inspired me to give back to other aspiring UCLA transfer students, so I became a peer mentor with the Center for Community College Partnerships (CCCP). 

CCCP helped me find a career path that motivates and fulfills me. Even though I was not a student in the CCCP program, being a mentor fundamentally altered my career trajectory. I studied neuroscience at UCLA in the hopes of becoming a neuroscientist, but I found that mentoring and being a peer counselor to other students was more fulfilling than research. I enjoyed relaying my lived experiences to other first-generation college students and inspiring one another with our successes. The community nurtured at CCCP grew my passion for student affairs, which I pursued professionally. Now, as a staff member in student affairs at UCLA, I carry on the purpose and lessons I learned as a peer mentor at CCCP. 

I work as a program advisor and coordinator for the UCLA Yardi Scholars program, a scholarship program for first-generation students at UCLA interested in pursuing careers in business or finance. I meet with students regularly, coordinate workshops and guest speakers, and provide resources for students in the program. 

CCCP provides resources, knowledge and, more importantly, the community for aspiring transfer students — even before they become Bruins. The program’s peer support is unique and invaluable. As a mentor, I was inspired to give back to others.