Hello! I’m Alex (she​/​her), and I’m an incoming third-year traditional Applied Linguistics and Southeast Asian Studies double major with aspirations of becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist. As a UCLA student, I’ve had the opportunity to experience many different facets of campus life—from balancing academics and extracurriculars to commuting and exploring the surrounding Westwood community with friends. I’ve learned to appreciate the little things that make UCLA feel like home, especially discovering new food spots, meeting people, and finding my own balance outside of academics. Outside of being a student, I have plenty of interests that keep me busy! I love practicing calligraphy, collecting mechas and little trinkets, playing recreational sports (especially tennis), and exploring new places with my friends. With my range of interests and experiences, I’m excited to share UCLA from a my perspective and confidently cater to your interests, answer your questions, and hopefully help you feel a little more at home on campus!

Hometown

Los Angeles, California

Major(s)

Applied Linguistics, Southeast Asian Studies

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Samahang Pilipino Cultural Night Samahang Pilipino Education and Retention Samahang Pilipino Advancing Community Empowerment Bruin Linguists Society

Describe your college experience

My transition to college taught me how to balance my academic responsibilities with extracurricular involvement while adjusting to the challenges of commuting and living off campus. Although it was an adjustment, it helped me become more independent, organized, and intentional with how I spent my time.

Tip for future students

Before starting college, I wish I knew that FOMO, or the fear of missing out, shouldn’t be something that dictates my college experience or makes me feel like I have to say yes to everything.

Favorite class

My favorite class at UCLA is Southeast Asian Studies C120: Ghosts, Spirits, and Witches: Supernatural in Southeast Asia. I loved how the class took a seemingly fun and niche topic and explored it through a sociopolitical and anthropological lens. It showed me how beliefs about ghosts and spirits can reveal deeper ideas about culture, history, and how people make sense of the world around them.

Career goals

After finishing my undergraduate degree at UCLA, I plan to work in marketing while preparing for postgraduate studies. Ultimately, I aspire to become a Speech-Language Therapist, where I can help individuals improve their communication and swallowing abilities and support them in expressing themselves with greater confidence and independence. I hope to combine the communication and interpersonal skills I develop through marketing with my passion for helping others, creating a career that is both people-centered and meaningful.

Ideal way to spend a free night

A perfect free night for me would be exploring different food spots around Westwood with my friends while catching up on life, whether it’s about academics, personal experiences, or everything in between!

High school or secondary school

Ambassador School of Global Leadership

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite spot at UCLA is the Tongva Grass. I love relaxing there with a picnic blanket, soaking up the sun, and spending quality time with friends. It’s a great place to unwind, while being by surrounded by the sounds of nature and the occasional group of people enjoying the outdoors, partaking in activities like slacklining on trees or lounging in hammocks.