Hi there! I'm an undergrad transfer student from southern CA. Woman in STEM!
Hi! I'm Jess, I love teaching, learning, crafting, nature, singing, and animals. I'm type of person that takes the lead in group projects, offers to present first, and is happy to step up when no one else feels comfortable to speak up.
About me
- GenderFemale
- Current academic yearSenior
- Age34
- Admission typeTransfer student
- Academic focusChemistry
- Personality typeSomewhat extroverted
- College experience ratingGood
Tour type
- Campus tour
- Video chat
Hometown
San Diego, CA
Major(s)
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Extracurriculars activities
- Greek life
- Club/Organization
- Job/Internship
- ROTC
- NCAA varsity sport
- Recreational sport
- Student government
- Community service
- Religious/Cultural group
- Art/Music/Performance
- Study abroad
- Other
Housing experience
- Dorm
- Off-campus house or apartment
- Fraternity or sorority house
- Home (Commuter)
- Other
Describe your college experience
I transferred to UCSC as a nontraditional (grad student age) undergrad student. I moved to Santa Cruz with a partner and currently live off campus by myself. Finding friends, stable employment and dependable healthcare in town have been my biggest struggles. The quarter system has also been a big adjustment, and I feel I have valuable perspective and advice to share with students transferring in from community colleges!
Tip for future students
Forming community can be tough in a new place, but it's even tougher if you never put yourself out there! Maintaining the relationships you cherish from back home takes work, and so does making new connections. The important part is finding a balance. That's what this stage of life is all about. Above all, remember thay you are here for a reason and don't lose sight of your goals.
Favorite class
At UCSC, my favorite class so far has been Seminar in Science Fictions. SciFi was what originally made little kid me want to be a scientist, and revisiting that in my senior year has reignited my passion for the subject matter after a heavy junior year taking challenging courses like chemical thermodynamics and quantum mechanics.
Career goals
I enjoy research-how every day is a little bit different-based on my previous favorite jobs I think I would enjoy life as a lab manager. A field rep position where I get to travel and teach people how to use their lab equipment also sounds amazing, since I loved tutoring and would really like to see more of the country and get to meet people all over!
Ideal way to spend a free night
Movie/craft nights, singing our hearts out at karaoke, or going camping in a new spot for a weekend
High school or secondary school
Rancho Bernardo High
Previous college
Mira Costa Community College
Favorite spot on campus
Cowell and Oakes both have beautiful ocean views on sunny days!
Meeting point
Outside of Slug Stop on the University of California, Santa Cruz campus