University of California, San Diego
UCSD First Gen Student Guide
Hi, I’m Emmanuel, a current UC San Diego student studying Pharmacological Chemistry. I am part of Revelle College. I have experience as an EMT, Pharmacy Technician, and as a Security Guard if you are looking for any guidance in these jobs. I enjoy showing people around campus, sharing the best study spots, food options, and local hangouts. As a first-generation student, I love helping visitors get an authentic view of student life at UCSD from the perspective of someone that came in completely blind. Whether you’re interested in academics, campus culture, or fun spots in San Diego, I’d be glad to guide you.
About me
- GenderMale
- Current academic yearSenior
- Age21
- Admission typeAdmitted as a freshman
- Academic focusChemistry
- Personality typeSomewhat extroverted
- College experience ratingAmazing
Tour type
- Campus tour
- Video chat
Hometown
San Bernardino, CA
Major(s)
Pharmacological Chemistry B.S.
Extracurriculars activities
- Greek life
- Club/Organization
- Job/Internship
- ROTC
- NCAA varsity sport
- Recreational sport
- Student government
- Community service
- Religious/Cultural group
- Art/Music/Performance
- Study abroad
- Other
Clubs, organizations & involvement
Nu Alpha Kappa Sleep Medicine Lab Volunteer
Housing experience
- Dorm
- Off-campus house or apartment
- Fraternity or sorority house
- Home (Commuter)
- Other
Describe your college experience
My transition to college was a pleasant and easy one. UCSD has many resources and events for newcomers throughout the year. For example, I was part of the RAZA living and learning community during my first year. Being a part of this program allowed me to meet great friends who I still talk to in my 4th year here at UCSD.
Tip for future students
The college that you choose matters a lot more than you may think. It determines the GEs that you must complete in order to graduate, and they vary in difficulty from college to college.
Favorite class
My favorite class so far has been organic chemistry lab. I got to use cool equipment in this lab, and performed chemical reactions such as synthesis and distillations.
Career goals
I hope to go to graduate school. I am particularly interested in the M.Eng in Chemical Engineering program at UC Davis.
Ideal way to spend a free night
My ideal way to spend a free night is to get some food with friends in Convoy, and then maybe go on a night adventure to the beach for a bon fire or to simply hangout.
High school or secondary school
Cajon High School, San Bernardino, CA
Previous college
I’ve attended San Bernardino Valley College, and Saddleback College to take extra classes.
Meeting point
Triton Fountain on the University of California San Diego campus