Hi! I’m Juli, a fourth-year double major in Integrative Biology (Human Biology emphasis) and Dance & Performance Studies on the pre-med track. I’ve worked across campus as a tour guide, current mailroom front desk staff, Student Union front desk staff, occasional course coordinator at the Fung Institute, and Resident Assistant for Unit 1 my second year and now Anchor House (transfer and re-entry housing). I’m deeply involved in student life through AFX, Berkeley’s largest dance organization, and the Filipino community, where I’ve served on board. Last spring, I studied abroad in the Philippines while competing in Miss Universe Philippines, an experience that gave me time to reflect and appreciate Berkeley in a new way. I’d love to share that perspective and help you experience campus through my eyes as your tour guide!

Hometown

Mission Viejo + Pasadena, California

Major(s)

Integrative Biology (Human Biology Emphasis), Dance and Performance Studies

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Pre-Medical Honors Society, American Medical Student Association Berkeley Resident Hall Assembly VP of Philanthropy Berkeley Public Service Center Resident Service Initiative Director Aspirations Family Experience (AFX) Dance Historian Pilipinx Academic Student Services (PASS) Student Development Coordinator Berkeley Resident Assistant, SP '25 Unit 1, FA '25 and FA '26 Anchor House Teen2Teen Mentorship Initiative Founder Highland Hospital And RABBITEars Bunny Shelter Volunteer

Describe your college experience

Starting college was an exciting yet daunting experience for me. Being a second-generation student, I was very excited but nervous about where I belonged on campus. Gradually, I found my niche through accepting invitations to step out of my comfort zones and become a campus tour guide, front desk worker, AFX member, and taking on leadership positions in the Filipino community. Being a Resident Assistant in Unit 1 and Anchor House, majoring in two subjects in pre-med, and working at various campus locations have made me adept at handling responsibilities without losing connection with people around me. Studying abroad in the Philippines last spring semester, while simultaneously participating in Miss Universe Philippines pageant, helped me appreciate all that I have learned at Berkeley and I wouldn't trade this experience for anything.

Tip for future students

The most important piece of advice I could give my future self would be to fully embrace the culture of "work hard, play hard" at UC Berkeley. At first, it may seem like there is an incredibly high pressure to survive in this environment, but eventually, you will come to see how much this atmosphere molds you. What I wish I had known was that it is okay to reach out for support, connect with others, and take a break from studies without guilt. Only when you leave the walls of Berkeley will you realize how much this place has influenced your growth, resilience, and confidence in yourself.

Favorite class

My favorite class has been Biology 1A Lab. It was challenging at first, but that challenge pushed me to grow and think more critically about how science connects to real life. Through hands-on experiments and learning how to analyze data, I realized how much I loved understanding the human body and biological systems in a deeper way. That experience ultimately inspired me to pursue Integrative Biology as a double major.

Career goals

After college, I hope to attend education graduate school and spend two years teaching. I want to gain experience working directly with students and communities before continuing on to medical school. My long-term goal is to become a physician who is deeply rooted in education, mentorship, and community care.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a free night is exploring different parts of the Bay Area, whether that’s trying a new spot with friends or catching a sunset by the beach. I also love spending time with my two mentees and my two littles, just hanging out and catching up. If there’s a concert in town, that’s always a favorite way to end the day too.

High school or secondary school

Trabuco Hills High School, Mission Viejo California