Hi! I’m Ava and I’m going into my second year at UCSD as a Neurobiology major. I remember how exciting (and slightly overwhelming) it felt to visit campus for the first time, so I’m excited to help make your experience fun and informative! Whether you’re curious about academics, student life, the best study spots, or where to grab a great meal, I’m happy to answer your questions and share what I’ve learned. I can’t wait to meet you and show you around UCSD!

Hometown

Los Angeles

Major(s)

Neurobiology

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Sorority life. Girls who run group. Pending lab position.

Describe your college experience

I was initially very nervous about going to San Diego. I kept worrying about if I would make any friends, struggle with my studies, or find my belonging? Fast forwarding now, I just finished my freshman year! Being at UC San Diego has been the best experience. I made so many meaning friendships, worked hard, and found myself growing positively into the person I am now. I gained more confidence and am really happy in San Diego. There are many great food spots and library walk is always hustle and bustle with students. Also I am about to get a lab position being a sophomore! I can’t wait for next year!

Tip for future students

My biggest tip for future students is to go in with an open mind. Yes, it’s scary and you might have preconceived expectations about how your experience will go. However, being open, putting yourself out there, and being yourself are the best things you can do. And if you do these things you are bound to make friends and enjoy your college experience. You are here for the right reason and it’s meant to be.

Favorite class

My favorite class at UC San Diego has been my chem 6C class. I truly connected with my professor and TA through office hours and discussion. They supported me and encouraged me when I struggled. I learned so much in this class!

Career goals

I’m hoping to eventually go to medical school or dental school. I want to work in healthcare and medicine.

Ideal way to spend a free night

When I have a free night, I love hanging out with my friends. We love going to dinner together at the mall near campus or going to Little Italy. A sweet treat after is always nice too. Exploring San Diego is usually top of the list when there’s a free night, but also having a night on campus watching a sports game is perfect too.

High school or secondary school

El Camino Real Charter High School

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite spots on campus are Marshall Lawn and Library Walk. Marshall Lawn is a new edition to UCSD and I love it. It is always full of students either lying on blankets tanning, playing spike ball or volleyball, and socializing with others. I also love library walk because that’s where people can set of booths to fundraise or put themselves out there. We also occasionally have vendors come and sell their items (almost like a flea market). We also host cultural booths there for heritage or awareness months.