Amanda Carrasco

she, her, hers

Honors BA, Ethnic Studies
BA, Sociology

I will attend UCLA to pursue a Master’s degree in Higher Education & Organizational Change in the Fall of 2020. Ultimately, I aim to pursue a PhD in Higher Education to become a researcher and faculty member who teaches through a critical race lens.

One of the biggest tools for success that I have found to be effective is finding a community on campus where you feel welcomed and valued. There are a lot of different student organizations and resource centers that cater to different student needs. Through my involvement on campus, I was able to surround myself with supportive mentors and peers that care about me as a person and have helped me navigate higher education. Finding my community and family on campus has tremendously enhanced my undergraduate career and I will carry this experience with me into my future work.

Jenny Hobbs

she, her, hers

BA, Ethnic Studies

My hope is to create a more inclusive society by creating equity and using education as a tool for personal enlightenment.

My advice: Remember that school is a small part of your life. Don’t stress out and don’t let others pressure you about trivial things. Follow your unique path, always believe in yourself, and be kind.

Mars Jacobsen

they, he, she

BS, Gender Studies
Computer Science Minor

After I graduate, I want to use my degree to change the world.

To those reading this that are currently or soon-to-be in college: reach out more than necessary. To your professors, your peers, everyone. Even if it doesn’t lead anywhere. And don’t wait to start, either. No “maybe next semester”. Imagine you’re looking back at your college years. What do you want to remember happening during that time? What accomplishments would you like to congratulate yourself on? Build a future free of I-wish-I-would-haves.

Jocelyne Lopez

she, her, hers

BA, Ethnic Studies
BA, Psychology

I am planning to go to grad school.

Education is what you make of it. Don’t limit yourself and keep going.

Christine Workman

she, her, hers

BS, Ethnic Studies
BS, Sociology

I am planning on attending graduate school here at the U in School Counseling. I would say that my best advice would be to try new things, even if they are unfamiliar and hard.

Naserian Montet

she, her, hers

BS, Gender Studies
BS, Political Science

I want to thank my American mama Ellen Brady and Leon Hammond, my college professors, my academic advisors and everybody that supported me throughout my college life. I am planning on going to grad school to pursue an MPA.

My advice to incoming and current students is to never give up, keep pushing, don’t let stress kill your motivation. Know where to go and ask for help. Don’t suffer alone because you’re not alone. Don’t forget people that are there for you. Be grateful. Life is too short.

Emily Nachtweih

she, her, hers

BS, Health Society & Policy
BS, Political Science
Disability Studies Minor

I am going to graduate school for a Masters of Science in Healthcare Administration at the University of Utah starting Fall 2020!

What you put into your degree is what you will get out of it. The University of Utah provides so many opportunities to get involved on campus and grow in your academic and professional development, take advantage of them!

Christina Souknarong

she, her, hers

BS, Ethnic Studies

I am going to be attending UVU for my Masters in Education with an emphasis in Higher Education.

My advice: Take on the U by it’s reigns, challenge yourself and challenge the spaces you’re in. You only get to do your undergraduate journey once so live it up, find that community and be the change you want to see transformed.

Mandy Tran

she, her, hers

BS, Ethnic Studies
BS; Family, Community & Human Development
Psychology Minor

After graduation, I will be starting my graduate career in School Counseling and of course finding a full time job with benefits!

For those of you in higher education, I’m so glad and proud of you that you are here! This is a big step into your journey to find what you want to do, whether it be for a career or for your personal gains. Remember that it is ok to not know what you want to do. It take time. Use these years to learn what you like, what you’re passionate about, and what makes you happy, whether it be exploring virtually or in person. Along this journey it is important to have self compassion as you will learn so much about yourself during these times, from all the lows to all the highs. Remember to take care of yourself, hold space, make space. You are here and we are here for you. I’ll be rooting for you!