Hello! My name is Ashley and I am a third-year Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience major pursing a career in the field of mental healthcare. Originally from San Francisco, moving to San Diego has enabled me to escape the fog and create unforgettable friendships, memories, and experiences that I will cherish long after graduation. As a former Orientation Leader and a Barista at an on-campus cafe, I know my campus inside and out. From food recommendations, academic resources, shortcut routes between lectures, niche study spots for deep lock-ins, to the inside scoop on where to find campus freebies and benefits as a college student, this is a just a brief overview of what I will definitely reveal on my tours. I welcome questions with excitement and if there is anything that I can't answer right away, I will be sure to point you in the direction of a resource that can help out!

Hometown

San Francisco, California

Major(s)

Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience

Minor(s)

Biology

Clubs, organizations & involvement

- Jobs: Orientation Leader for Marshall College, Barista at Copa Vida Cafe at UCSD - Study Abroad Alumni Ambassador: Global Seminar Summer Program for Social Cognition in Barcelona - Research: Undergraduate Researcher at the Lee Lab in UCSD Medical School's Department of Psychiatry - Pre-Professional Organizations: Phi Delta Epsilon (Pre-Medical Co-Ed Fraternity), Triton Business Society - Sorority and Fraternity Life: Kappa Kappa Gamma (Philanthropy Chair for Mental Health Philanthropy) - Other Clubs: American Medical Student Association (member), Mentor Collective (peer mentor)

Describe your college experience

I am fortunate to have made lifelong friendships at UC San Diego with my roommates who feel like my chosen family. I am very grateful to say they are my home away from home. At this competitive university, it is important to prioritize your well-being and supportive relationships amid the hectic pace and inconsistency of college. San Diego has a beautiful way of transforming people into versions of themselves who prioritize balance. Despite feeling hesitant about attending UCSD because of rumors hinting at a lack of a social life, I realized immediately since my freshman year that there are countless opportunities for connection here across a multitude of interests. The positive experiences I gained from academics, people, activities, and new experiences always reflected what I poured into them. Even though my journey in academic and professional exploration has not been linear, I have definitely been uplifted every step of the way by the new bonds that I have built here since my first day of orientation.

Tip for future students

It is COMPLETELY okay to not know exactly what you are doing! More importantly, be adaptable, set goals, and stay accountable amidst all the change.

Favorite class

COGS 171: Mirror Neuron Systems has been my favorite class at UCSD so far because of how the content integrates neuroscience and psychology with development and anatomy. My passionate professor also kept our whole class engaged while we completed this course as a part of the Global Seminars Program in Barcelona. This class enriched my understanding of my field of study while also expanding my knowledge as a student studying abroad.

Career goals

I hope to become a psychiatrist! The field of mental health has always fascinated me and as I have continued furthering my education at UCSD as a Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience major, I have become more drawn to healthcare and acute conditions.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a free night would start with a CorePower yoga sculpt class or with a 30 minute run. Exercise and physical movement have significantly improved my mental health through endorphin release from cardio. This also helps me find balance with studying constantly at school. Next, I would refresh and grab dinner with friends before we go out to an event, gathering, or into the city.

High school or secondary school

St. Ignatius College Preparatory

Favorite spot on campus

I love the terrace above Sixth College Lawn on the fifth floor of the Urban Studies and Planning building across from Blue Bowl. This terrace overlooks the horizon of Black's Beach and has the most incredible view of the sunset. There are plenty of couches, tables, desks, and chairs for studying, relaxing, catching up with people, or enjoying the view.