Hi, my name is Christian! I’m currently a college student who loves going to the gym, exploring new places, and meeting new people. I’m a very outgoing person and I love dancing, especially hip-hop, bachata, and banda music. I enjoy spending time with friends and family, trying new foods, and sometimes cooking different dishes myself. I also enjoy showing people around campus and helping guests experience the fun side of student life while making them feel comfortable and welcome.

Hometown

Sparks, Nevada

Major(s)

Integrative Biology

Minor(s)

Health and wellness

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Pi Lambda Phi Fraternity — President (2025–Present); Vice President of Communications (2024–2025) CalTHON — Finance Deputy Director, Executive Board (2025–Present); Morale Chair, Internal Team (2024–2025) Pre-Nursing Society (PNS) — Social Chair (2026–Present) Raíces Recruitment and Retention Center (Raíces) — Health & Wellness and Community Outreach Member (2024–2025) Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) — Congressional Intern (Summer 2025) Office of U.S. Representative Lou Correa (CA-46) — Congressional Intern (Summer 2025) Latinxs and the Environment — Constitution Team Member (2024–2025) Golden Bear Orientation — Orientation Leader (2024) External Affairs Vice President ​/​ DC Lobbying Delegation — Student Advocate and Lobbying Representative (2023) Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows — Youth of the Year Recipient (2023) Coalition of Concerned Medical Professors (CCMP) — Volunteer (2024–Present) Berkeley Free Clinic (IRC) — Volunteer (2026–Present) UC Berkeley Taekwondo Team — Event Volunteer (2024)

Describe your college experience

My college experience has honestly been a roller coaster, filled with exciting moments, challenges, stress, growth, and a lot of unforgettable memories. Transitioning into college was not always easy because balancing classes, assignments, finals, work, leadership positions, and social life can become overwhelming at times. However, those experiences have helped me grow as a person, learn from my mistakes, and become better at managing responsibilities and balancing everything I want to do. At the same time, college has been one of the best experiences of my life so far. I have had the opportunity to meet so many new people, build meaningful friendships, and get involved in organizations that have shaped who I am today. Being at University of California, Berkeley has made the experience even more special because there are always new people to meet, different perspectives to learn from, and so many opportunities available to students. I really enjoy the environment, the nature around campus, and the many resources Berkeley provides to help students succeed both academically and personally. College has taught me to step outside my comfort zone, enjoy the present, and appreciate all the experiences that come with this stage of life. Even during stressful times, I try to remind myself that college is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am grateful for everything it has taught me so far.

Tip for future students

One of my biggest tips for future students is to learn what “Berkeley Time” means before enrolling in classes because it confused me at first. I would also recommend starting with around 14–16 units during your first semester and trying not to overload yourself with too many difficult technical classes at once. Taking about two technical classes at a time can help you balance your workload better while adjusting to college life. Another important thing is that it is completely okay if you do not know exactly what you want to major in right away. College is a time to explore new interests, meet different people, and try new experiences. Join clubs, organizations, and events because the University of California, Berkeley has so many opportunities and communities for students. As a freshman, take advantage of your meal plan too and try different campus spots like Golden Bear Café because the food is actually pretty good. I also highly recommend staying organized early on. Check your syllabus as soon as possible and plan out your midterms, assignments, and finals ahead of time. Using a physical planner or a Google Calendar really helps with organizing meetings, classes, work, and social events. Also, if you are not a morning person, avoid 8:00 AM classes because they can be rough. One of the best things you can do is ask upperclassmen for advice about classes, professors, and study tips. Go to office hours, ask questions, and learn how to study effectively because college studying is very different from high school. Overall, my biggest lesson from being at Berkeley is not to hold yourself back. Push yourself to try new things, work hard, meet people, and fully enjoy the experience because college goes by very fast.

Favorite class

My favorite class at University of California, Berkeley would probably be my Leadership and Professional Development class. One of the biggest reasons was because of Professor Cory, who was an amazing and genuine person. He was very real with students and was not afraid to show his own vulnerability, which made the class feel very personal and supportive. The class was different from most classes at Berkeley because it focused a lot on personal growth and self-reflection instead of only academics. We met once a week in smaller groups, had opportunities to journal during class, and talked openly about our experiences, goals, strengths, and weaknesses. The class really pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me become more confident in myself. Another thing I loved was the reading material. We read articles and books that I actually enjoyed, which surprised me because I never really considered myself much of a reader before taking the class. Hearing other people’s stories and perspectives also helped me learn more about myself and the people around me. Overall, it was one of the most meaningful classes I have taken because it helped me grow both personally and professionally, and honestly, I would take it again if I could.

Career goals

After college, I hope to become a nurse and work in healthcare, supporting patients and communities in need. I’m especially interested in working with underserved populations and eventually getting involved in healthcare advocacy to help improve access and resources for others.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a free night depends on my mood. Sometimes I like to stay active by going to the gym or taking dance classes in San Francisco, since I really enjoy dancing and learning new styles. Other times, I like to just hang out with friends, grab food, and spend time together. I’m also a big movie person, so I enjoy having a chill night in, watching a good movie show, and relaxing when I need to recharge.

High school or secondary school

Sparks high school, and Truckee meadows community college (TMCC)