Incoming First Gen Students 2021
Welcome to UCSF!
We want to highlight and celebrate our incoming First Generation to College students and the unique experiences and identities that you bring. To foster a sense of community, we have created profiles to introduce you to each other. We hope to meet you all in person soon!
If you are an 2021 incoming First Gen student and would like to be included on this list, fill out this short survey.
If you would like to make any changes to your profile, please email us directly.
Graduate Division
Nicholas Choquette (Translational Medicine)
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: Torrance
Hobbies/Interest: I am interested in bouldering, swimming, hiking, cooking and reading.
Fun Fact: I am half Guatemalan and a quarter French.
What excites you about starting your program?
Work with others to develop a device with the potential to make a difference in peoples lives.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
It means to be the first of my extended family to be pursuing a masters.
Jingwen Ding (BMS)
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: China
Hobbies/Interest: Cooking and trying new restaurants. (I love food. xD)
Fun Fact: A pure Chinese who have lived in Japan for 1/3 of my life.
What excites you about starting your program?
A brand new environment which hopefully could expose me to research I'm (potentially) interested in.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Chances to make new friends and to explore a new world.
Raed Hanoon (Translational Medicine)
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: Anabta, Palestine
Hobbies/Interest: In my spare time, I like playing soccer with friends, 3D printing random ideas, and connecting with new people to learn more about their experiences!
Fun Fact: I moved to the United States when I was 8 y/o.
What excites you about starting your program?
I'm excited to meet a unique set of individuals who share similar interests as me! I love connecting with new people/students, and the MTM program serves to provide that. Aside from establishing meaningful connections, this program will introduce me to instrumental scientific skills and interpersonal connections that are key components to fulfill my ever-growing curiosity to translate innovative ideas into healthcare.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
It's a privilege to be the first graduate student in my family to attend UCSF and UC Berkeley. Being a First Gen. graduate student gives me the opportunity to set example for the future generation of students who share a similar background as me. I view this opportunity to be a humbling experience for my family and I. I hope to leave a lasting impact on underserved communities around the globe and navigate my knowledge and skills to grow as a leader and challenge existing barriers that limit that growth of medicine.
Sonam Kumari (Global Health Studies)
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Antioch, CA
Hobbies/Interest: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, especially when it involves food and dessert! I also enjoy drawing, taking mediocre photos to document memories, and traveling to new places.
Fun Fact: My family moved a lot while I was growing up. By the time I started high school in Pittsburg, CA, I had already lived in New York City (where I was born and raised), New Jersey, and Punjab (India).
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited to learn from Global Health Sciences experts, connect with like-minded peers who are also passionate about global health equity, and build lasting memories at UCSF!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gen means being a leader and a trailblazer—not only for my family, but for anyone else who also comes from a disadvantaged background. I consider it to be both a responsibility and an honor to strive for something bigger than myself.
Ming-Yu Liu (Translational Medicine)
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: Taiwan
Hobbies/Interest: Watching movies; tennis games; swimming; and skiing
Fun Fact: A compassionate and enthusiastic person, willing to work with interdisciplinary teams.
What excites you about starting your program?
After being worked as clinical physician for more than 9 years, it’g great to be back campus again and harness the power of technology to delivery better healthcare.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
There is no limit or glass ceiling for anyone who dares to dream big.
Geremy Lowe (The History of Health Sciences)
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Chicago
Hobbies/Interest: I love to paint and binge-watch great shows on Netflix. I love being outdoors, walking around the lake, or hiking. Additionally, I enjoy going out for brunch and dinner with family and friends.
Fun Fact: I am a licensed cosmetologist and have worked in the beauty industry for 12 years, holding various positions as an educator, master stylist, and editorial hairstylist.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited to connect the histories of health issues that have been exacerbated through the pandemic and have great enthusiasm to connect with world-renowned faculty with scholarship that has shaped the ways society understands race, public health, and medical practices.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen means walking the pavement laid by my ancestors and smoothing it out for those coming after me. As a first-gen student, I live in the truth that my parents, grandparents, and ancestors saw for me. Moreover, as we commemorate the 67th anniversary of the Supreme Court ruling in Brown v Board of Education, I stand proud to know that I have the opportunity to pursue a Ph.D. and aid communities like mine to have their narratives told and voices heard.
Silvia Miramontes (BMI)
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: San Diego, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Hiking, yoga, pilates, cooking, and baking.
Fun Fact: I was trained in various dance disciplines for 11 years!
What excites you about starting your program?
Getting to meet new people and the potential research opportunities while in the program.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
For me First Gen means determination. Despite the obstacles presented we (have learned to) always find a way to make the best out of every set back.
Ashley Mitchell (Global Health Studies)
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Saint Paul, MN
Hobbies/Interest: Hiking; Backpacking; Reading; Learning
Fun Fact: I have experience raising backyard chickens in a Saint Paul, MN!
What excites you about starting your program?
The opportunity to immerse myself in another season of learning excites me most. I am humbled to be joining a community of knowledgeable, skilled, and passionate global health experts. I'm also looking forward to gaining allies and accomplices in the global reproductive justice field, specifically.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
To me, being First Gen means navigating several intersecting identities every day. It means that I have experienced uniquely vibrant relationships and the support of a myriad of generous mentors as well as disorienting isolation. I feel fortunate that being First Gen encouraged me to refine and live my values, to advocate for myself, and to persist through challenges. I have learned both to trust myself and to ask for help, while deepening my practice of gratitude.
Gabriel Viramontes (TETRAD)
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: ALodi, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Some of my more common hobbies include video gaming, thrifting/fashion, physical fitness, singing, and painting.
Fun Fact: One unique fact about me is that about 80% of all the clothes I have in my closet is thrifted. This is primarily, because my favorite style is modern retro.
What excites you about starting your program?
I can't wait to meet my cohort and build life long bonds with each and every member.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being a first generation PhD students specifically from a minority background, means to me that I know have the experience to become a pillar of inspiration for my younger siblings as a distinguishable role model that pushes them towards higher education.
Sydney Williams (PSPG)
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Hobbies/Interest: First off, I live to eat! I also love music, sports, fitness, and mentorship. These things have helped get around the best and the worst of times.
Fun Fact: I secretly want to be a rapper and streetwear ambassador, but I'm not sure I have the bars and notoriety yet. I'm also addicted to cereal, specifically Frosted Flakes.
What excites you about starting your program?
It's something new and innovative. I get the chance to change the world with people who are like-minded innovators. I'm really excited to develop myself into a refined scientist, something I never thought I would be saying.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gen means that I'm paving the way. Someone had to start the higher education train and it just so happened to be me in my family. What was once a hinderance is now a triumph in this stage of my life.
School of Dentistry
Paola Benefo
Pronouns: She/Hers/Her
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Hobbies/Interest: I enjoy journaling, practicing the piano, watching Anime/Nollywood/Bollywood/Kdrama, and picking up new languages.
Fun Fact: I like to sew Ankara outfits for my loved ones.
What excites you about starting your program?
Finally making it.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being a First Gen means I get to help give back to communities that raised me to be here.
Veronica Claro
Hometown: Miami
Hobbies/Interest: I like to spend quality time with my family and friends. I love being outdoors it just brings me so much energy and peace so I like to rollerblade and go to the beach.
Fun Fact: I am Cuban. I was born and raised over in Camajuani, Villa Clara and when I was 16 years old I moved to the US. I also have the cutest baby bird his name is Fei Long, he is a sun conure, so I am a big bird lover.
What excites you about starting your program?
Since I was 10 years old I knew I wanted to become a Dentist, so I cannot be more excited to see that long-term dream of mine become a reality.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
This is a great question, being first-generation is part of who I am now. I have been involved with other organizations like TRIO and they have helped me so much. I will always be grateful for the support, guidance, and help I received from this origination and everyone that made it feel like a family to me and other students as well. This is why I am so excited to become a part of this community.
Ivan Cortes
Hometown: Irvine
Hobbies/Interest: Backpacking; Cycling; Horseback riding; Running; Scuba diving; and Travel
Fun Fact: I am an avid horse rider.
What excites you about starting your program?
Meeting my classmates and positively impacting other through dentistry :)
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Having the opportunity to obtain a highly skilled profession and a link in my community to help many who do not have the guidance towards higher education.
Chelsey Lin
Pronouns: She/Hers/Her
Hometown: Irvine, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Painting; drawing; watching TV shows and movies; Kpop; watching Kdrama; Disney; eating delicious food!
Fun Fact: Although I love the color pink and almost everything I have is pink, I rarely wear pink things!
What excites you about starting your program?
I'm most excited about getting to meet new people and to live new experiences!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen means to me an opportunity. It means being able to do things I didn't think I'd be able to do and more! It also means being supported by a community of people who can help and share my experiences.
Cristhian Martinez
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Richmond, Virgina
Hobbies/Interest: Out of the activities listed above, I enjoy being outside, playing soccer and volleyball, and eating lots of yummy food!
Fun Fact: I've been told that I use my legs to rock myself to sleep.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am most excited about getting to learn more about the mouth and teeth, as well as getting to know all of the people, not only at the dental school, but UCSF as a whole!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gen to me means that I get to walk a path never walked by anyone in my family. It is a hard path, but the support they give outweighs the struggle of having to learn how to navigate the unknown world of undergrad or graduate school. Being First Gen also fills me with pride because I am paving a path for people in my family that will strive to get an education.
Kenya Velez
Pronouns: She/Hers
Hometown: Woodside, Queens, New York
Hobbies/Interest: Cooking/Baking; Photography; Trying new cuisines; Running; Blogging; Enjoying Nature; Travel; Community Service
Fun Fact: I speak 3 languages English, Spanish, and Portuguese. I was a track runner and have run a few races! (Goal: One day to run a marathon!)
What excites you about starting your program?
What excites me the most is becoming part of the UCSF community with students, faculty, staff, etc. From the first day, the admissions committee and staff have been very encouraging and welcoming sending me a package with UCSF information and goodies! I cannot wait to join student clubs, participate in research, and have the opportunity to assist and shadow in all specialties. In addition, to be able to join community outreach events! I am very excited to start this new chapter at UCSF!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First-Gen means a lot to me as my parents never had the opportunity to receive an education. I feel extremely humbled, grateful, and blessed to be given this opportunity. It is the greatest gift they have given me. I do not take this for granted in any way. Once I complete my education at UCSF, I would love to give back to first-generation students any advice, shared experiences, etc.
Ryen Wilson
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Fredericksburg, VA
Hobbies/Interest: I’m really into theater and plays.
Fun Fact: My favorite food is sushi and my dogs name is Wren.
What excites you about starting your program?
I’m really excited to start learning how to be proficient with my hand skills and to join different groups on campus!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
To me, being First Gen means never giving up on the goals I’ve set for myself. It also means appreciating all the support and sacrifice my loved ones endured so that I had the opportunity to make them and my communities proud.
School of Medicine
Samrawit Agezew
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Addis Ababa
Hobbies/Interest: Hiking/dancing/reading
What excites you about starting your program?
I am very excited to learn from my peers, mentors, and faculty and grow towards becoming the best physician and advocate that I can be for my future patients.
Andrew Contreras
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Madera
Hobbies/Interest: In my free time, I enjoy taking my dog Mescal on walks and playing both soccer and pickleball.
Fun Fact: I am left-handed!
What excites you about starting your program?
Meeting new people with similar interests who are also passionate in making the world a better place.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gen means you are a resilient and passionate individual who has overcome a plethora of barriers to be where you are today.
Pardeep Dhillon
Pronouns: He/His
Hometown: Atwater
Hobbies/Interest: Sports, Exercise, Drawing, Anime, Video games, Cooking
Fun Fact: I can speak Punjabi fluently.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am most excited about the exposure I will receive to different aspects of medicine.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen means being a leader and role model for future generations.
Woodger Faugas
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Boston, MA/Haiti
Hobbies/Interest: Foosball; Cooking; Visual Arts; Comedy; Music
Fun Fact: I love spicy foods!
What excites you about starting your program?
I'm highly excited about medicine's pluridisciplinary bent —in emphasizing science, first, as well as the field's intersections with the humanities and social sciences, second.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen means committing to perseverance, self and communal reflection, resource-sharing, and community-building.
Brandon Goenawan
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Bakersfield
Hobbies/Interest: In my free time, I love exploring the outdoors (camping and deep-sea fishing), watching movies, working out, and spending time with family and friends. I also enjoy going to concerts and finding new places to eat.
Fun Fact: I am an old soul who loves soul music, classic rock, and 1990/early 2000s family movies, like little rascals and sandlot.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am so excited and honored to learn things about the human body and the ability to use that knowledge to eventually make a difference in people's lives. It's truly an incredible privilege.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First-Gen to me means being the first in my family to achieve the American dream despite all odds.
Natan Hekmatjah
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Los Angeles
Hobbies/Interest: Playing basketball, snowboarding, and cooking steaks!
Fun Fact: My name is spelled the name forward and backward :)
What excites you about starting your program?
Very excited to finally start a new chapter in my life and text the next steps in becoming a doctor!!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen means making my family proud. Coming here from across the world not knowing the language, American way of life, etc, and making it, makes me want to give back to my parents, family, and friends even more.
Michael Johanis
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Torrance, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Real estate, stocks, NBA & NFL, video games, and late night drives
Fun Fact: I have been buying and reselling shoes for years
What excites you about starting your program?
I look forward to serving marginalized populations, conducting research, and connecting with my classmates!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gen means that I have overcome unique obstacles while breaking into higher education. My experience taught me persistence and patience. Most importantly, being First Gen has sparked my passion for supporting other first-generation students and historically disadvantaged groups.
Bagieng Keophimphone
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Fresno
Hobbies/Interest: I enjoy weightlifting and exploring new places to eat.
Fun Fact: I can play the piano!
What excites you about starting your program?
What excites me the most about my program is being able to be involved with the Central Valley and taking steps towards improving the well-being of the underserved communities within the Valley.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
To me, being First Gen means becoming the support towards those who share the same personal struggles I had throughout my life.
Michelle Luu
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: San Jose, CA
Hobbies/Interest: I enjoy tending to my plants, making desserts, and taking long walks in new neighborhoods. I’m also a huge fan of origami and jigsaw puzzles!
Fun Fact: I'm a middle child and I actually love being one!
What excites you about starting your program?
I really look forward to developing tools and insights that will help me contribute to health equity efforts in my communities.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
It means so much. It has meant straddling between worlds, which at times has been confusing and frustrating. It is also learning how to be resourceful, and learning how to find your community. Although it hasn't been easy, to me being First Gen is really about honoring the nuances of who we are, and empowering others that come after us.
Nirosh Mataraarachchi
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Burbank, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Fitness and nutrition, beginning as a side interest, have now become more of a lifestyle for me. I find great enjoyment in challenging myself and trying new forms of exercise, like endurance, strength, or functional training! While following this outlook on healthy living, I've grown to love cooking and the nutritional aspects behind the food I cook. I'm always looking to create healthy alternatives while still prioritizing flavor and deliciousness! I also really love comics, like Marvel and DC Universe, and their respective movies. There's a special space in my brain dedicated to random superhero history and facts.
Fun Fact: Towards the end of high school and throughout college, I was a part-time barber, cutting my friends' hair after a long day of classes or an exam! I really enjoyed the technical nature and creative aspects required to bring the hairstyle they envisioned to life. Most of all, I loved being able to connect with whoever's hair I was cutting that day as we each talked about life, successes, failures, and the future.
What excites you about starting your program?
There are so many aspects of the Medicine program at UCSF that excite me. But what I think it all boils down to is learning and all the incredible information, insight, advice, and wisdom I will gain from all the amazing people in my program including faculty, classmates, advisors, staff, and so many more!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gen to me means navigating the unknown with a sense of purpose, with that purpose being to pave way for others like me to find direction and overcome obstacles. You don't know what you don't know. You may feel alone. You may even think you are the only one to go through various struggles. However, being First Gen today alleviates a lot of those uncertainties because there are so many resources and support mechanisms around you. I've learned to find strength in being First Gen, knowing that I can find my way with the support of so many who have gone through similar struggles or are there to support me in any capacity.
Rojina Nekoonam
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Fresno, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Landscape Photography, Traveling, Hiking, Bowling
Fun Fact: I am the only child.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge in the field of medicine and learning new skills that will enable me to better address the needs of various patient populations, reduce gaps in healthcare equity, and eliminate existing health disparities.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
To me, the word "first-generation" connotes the opportunity to leave a new legacy in my family and to venture boldly into uncharted territories.
Ankit Salhotra
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Buena Park
Hobbies/Interest: I enjoy watching all sports, playing basketball, and living a healthy lifestyle!
Fun Fact: I've jumped out of a plane!
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited to learn from world-class UCSF faculty members that will help me pursue my goal of combining medicine and science to address difficult problems that arise in healthcare.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen to me means resiliency.
Youssef Sibih
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Cupertino, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Street/Landscape Photography, Long-distance cycling, Tennis, Soccer
Fun Fact: Can solve a Rubik's cube in under a minute!
What excites you about starting your program?
I’m most excited about coupling my unique life experiences with the diversity of backgrounds I will encounter in the SF Bay Area to combat systemic injustices and having the opportunity to participate in programs that will allow me to deliver quality care to underserved populations!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen to me means realizing that it is okay to step outside of your "comfort zone" to persevere through any challenges that may arise. Being the first in my family to start a journey like this reminds me to self-reflect at any point where I may feel lost in the process. Knowing that my family and peers are here to support me will give me the chance to take risks and be excited for what's to come.
Mohamed Hisham Siddeek
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Sri Lanka
Hobbies/Interest: Playing cricket, hiking, watching Disney+
Fun Fact: My birthday is on Christmas Day.
What excites you about starting your program?
Meeting my classmates in person as well as having the opportunity to volunteer in community clinics.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gen to me is to be resourceful, patient and determined. Our community is what makes us stronger: whenever in doubt, reach out.
Harrison Tran
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: San Jose, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Cooking, Weightlifting, Basketball, Hiking, Playing with my cat
Fun Fact: I love going to new restaurants and trying unique dishes. Then I like to try to recreate them myself at home!
What excites you about starting your program?
Meeting all my amazing peers! Being able to serve in my home state after being away from college.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
I thought, initially, that being First Gen separated me from my peers but I instead found a warm, supportive community where we could help each other through our struggles and difficult experiences. Being First Gen has taught me to be vulnerable and understanding. I value the mentorship that I can receive and give as a First Gen student.
Adrian Vallejo
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Redlands, CA
Hobbies/Interest: I'm really excited to explore SF and get to know the people and culture. I like to be outside, run and hike.
Fun Fact: I am a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu purple belt and I like to grapple for fun. Try it out!
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited to pursue my dream in starting medical school to become a culturally competent provider and serve the under-resourced communities that I saw growing up.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen to me means resilience, resourcefulness, and taking initiative.
School of Nursing
Alessia Alta
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: San Francisco
Hobbies/Interest: I love working out on my exercise bike to heart pumping music! I also started sewing after my second child was born and I love working on projects for my family such as tshirts or cozy pajamas.
Fun Fact: I was the mistress of ceremonies of both my elementary and high school graduations!
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited to connect with the vibrant scholarly community that is UCSF. As a San Francisco native, I feel honored to be able to represent UCSF, and, I’m really looking forward to connecting with my community in a very impactful way as a nursing student!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being first gen, for me, means becoming my best so that I can lift up my family and my community and create positive change in the world around me. It means going after my goals no matter the odds and setting an example for other young women of color coming up after me.
Nayelie Benitez Santos
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Fullerton, CA
Hobbies/Interest: I love running and hiking. I am currently training for a half marathon.
Fun Fact: I have a pet guinea pig names Shrute because my favorite show is The Office.
What excites you about starting your program?
I look forward to joining a community of nursing students and learning for them.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
It means having to work through obstacles even when wanting to give up because my journey is bigger than me, it is also for my family and community.
Cecilia Carvajal
Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Spending time with my nieces & nephews. I also enjoy going on fun hikes with friends & hosting picnics. Baking, reading, yoga and laying out on my hammock.
Fun Fact: I love to dance, mostly salsa!
What excites you about starting your program?
It’s going to be so fun & rewarding to connect with peers that want to further their education. I’m excited to attend such a prestigious institution and use my graduate education to serve my city and my neighborhood.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
FirstGen means holding the responsibility to represent hard work for your family and community. It means showing your family and loved ones that there new paths for us all and breaking generational barriers.
Charlie Edman
Pronouns: She/They
Hometown: Oakland, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Reading- especially speculative fiction and rom-coms! Fiber arts like embroidery and weaving. Wandering though the woods and looking at plants. Swimming in rivers. Cooking for my dear ones. Exploring new places.
Fun Fact: I studied western herbalism, and love to support my community with medicinal plants!
What excites you about starting your program?
I’m excited to connect with other MEPN students who are passionate about improving healthcare for underserved communities, especially the LGBT community.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen means dedication, hope, community, hard work- and occasionally a bit of confusion navigating academic systems! It’s also means knowing that there’s support to be found if I just look for it.
Celestine Yayra Ofori-Parku
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Dzodze-Ghana
Hobbies/Interest: Singing; Bead making; Going on a trip; Watching shows and movies.
Fun Fact: My ability to make laughter out of a difficult situation.
What excites you about starting your program?
The fact that I have the opportunity to start the walk into my dreams’ journey
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being the first person in my family to have a college education
Mariam Parra
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Tijuana. Mexico
Hobbies/Interest: Playing the ukulele, cooking, reading fiction, playing D&D, walking/hiking, and relaxing.
Fun Fact: I commuted across the Tijuana-San Diego border on a daily basis for 10 years (I lived in Tijuana and went to school/work in SD).
What excites you about starting your program?
Getting to know my peers and be surrounded by like-minded folks with similar goals.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
It means self-reliance, resilience, and creativity - you have to always find ways to shift your perspective or look at a problem from a new, different angle to find a solution. It also means generosity and community - I couldn't have achieved many things without the generosity of other first-gens who provided guidance and support. I now do my best to keep paying it forward with younger first-gens.
Gladys Partida Manzano
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Pasadena, CA
Hobbies/Interest: I enjoy self-care activities such as hiking, meditation, running outdoors, indoor climbing, and traveling.
Fun Fact: I am the middle child of 5 siblings.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited about gaining hands on experience in clinical nursing skills all while learning how to implement public health interventions for underserved populations. I look forward to immersing myself in different clinical settings so that I can get a well rounded perspective on the needs of the communities that I will be serving.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gen means being a role model and showing other underserved students that it is possible to achieve your career goals. It means getting out of your comfort zone and accepting that it is OK to ask for help when you need it. As a First Gen Latina student, I have the responsibility to pass on my knowledge and mentorship skills to other First Gen students so that they gain confidence in achieving their own success.
Iliana Rodriguez
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Madera, CA
Hobbies/Interest: I like to hike, explore the city, attend outdoor events.
Fun Fact: I have 4 brothers and 3 sisters!
What excites you about starting your program?
I'm excited to meeting people in this field.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First gen to me means perseverance. It's not an easy task to pursue higher education but with the motivation, encouragement, and support anything is possible.
Brittany Rollins
Hometown: Sunnyvale, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Hiking; Stand up Paddle; Biking; Travel; Trail Running; SCUBA; Coffee
Fun Fact: I took 8 trips in 2019 prior to the pandemic and also flew through Wuhan November 2019 just before Covid.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited to open a new door of possibilities. I am hesitantly ready to adapt a brand new schedule and be back in school for the first time in 10 years. The Neonatal CNS program directly aligns with my career goals and I am excited to take the first step into the future.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
It means doing something that not only my family has not done before but also something they do not necessarily understand or fully support. It is exciting because the steps I make academically are going to have a positive impact in my career as well as my family.
Abigail Romero
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Greenfield
Hobbies/Interest: I like hiking and working out with friend. I garden on the side (still working on my green thumb).
Fun Fact: Fun fact about myself I am a migrant student. I grew up between the Salinas Valley and Imperial Valley, California. Moving with the season following the crops with my parents.
What excites you about starting your program?
Getting one step closer in supporting my family and my migrant community
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being the first in my family to pursue higher education in the United States. Someone to set an example for my family and community. Someone who can supporting other now and in the future navigate the education system so that they don't face the same barriers in pursuing higher education.
Shu Hua Shen
Hometown: San Francisco
Hobbies/Interest: Swimming; hiking; baking; watching horror movies; eating spicy food.
Fun Fact: Love spicy food.
What excites you about starting your program?
Learn more and more about nursing and disease prognosis to advance my nursing/medical understanding and strengthen my nursing skills.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
My dream is not only my dream but is my family's dream. To be able to make the dream come true, it is my responsibility and honor.
Rhemel Singleton
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Vallejo
Hobbies/Interest: I love to binge watch Netflix shows, learning new hobbies like skating, swimming.
What excites you about starting your program?
I spent a decade of my life procrastinating applying to any programs because of fear and so I am excited I took the plunge and I get to finally start a career I am so passionate about.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being first-gen for me means being a mentor, advocate, leader to my family especially my daughter and to myself that I am breaking barriers and accomplishing life goals that previous generation didn’t have the opportunity to do.
Larisa Starinsky
Hometown: San Francisco
Hobbies/Interest: Gardening; reading; cooking.
Fun Fact: Originally from Russia, immigrated to US at age of 18 by myself with no family. Very brave and ambitious!
What excites you about starting your program?
I am super excited about school itself, UCSF is one of the best graduate and professional schools across the country. I am really excited about being a part of UCSF community.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
It means a lot for me and my parents. I want them to be proud of me! Also I want to be a role model for my daughter.
Ogochukwu Umeugoji
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Nigerian
Hobbies/Interest: Traveling, Meeting New friends.
Fun Fact: Extremely determined to achieve whatever I set my mind on doing.
What excites you about starting your program?
Diversity
What does being First Gen mean to you?
The young shall grow...
Adrian Yepes Correa
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: San Francisco
Hobbies/Interest: Cooking
Fun Fact: Love to dance.
What excites you about starting your program?
I will be able to help many people in vulnerable situation.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
The first generation means hard work to achieve all the planned goals despite the difficulties encountered along the way. It makes me proud to think of my parents' legacy even though they did not go to school they always told me "giving you an education is the greatest treasure we can give you, receive it"
Tiffany Young
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Hobbies/Interest: I love going on adventures which includes hiking, trying new restaurants, picnics, and exploring destinations with views! I also just love relaxing at home and putting on a sitcom on the TV to unwind for the day.
Fun Fact: I am ambidextrous and can speak three languages fluently!
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited to meet new people and to expand my perspective in the medical/nursing field! I am also excited to learn more in depth about the theories of nursing, which I'm incredibly passionate about!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being first generation means to be the first in my family to attend college. It comes with pride but it also comes with a pressure to succeed. First generation means to me being the role model for not only my parents, but also my family and my community.
School of Pharmacy
Yazmin Arambula
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Madera, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Hiking, exploring eateries, music festivals, & movies!
What excites you about starting your program?
Meeting like minded colleagues, and growing as a person.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being first gen means breaking barriers :)
James Chhen
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
Hobbies/Interest: I enjoy exploring new things and spending time with friends. When I have time, I enjoy going on easy runs and trying new foods.
Fun Fact: I like chocolate but not chocolate-flavored foods.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited to gain new knowledge and skills while being one step closer to serving my community.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gens means taking the first steps toward unpaved paths and being resilient when situations become challenging.
Mark Gutin
Hometown: Los Angeles
Hobbies/Interest: Hiking in various areas especially when visiting new states.
Fun Fact: I can speak 4 languages.
What excites you about starting your program?
The possibility of returning to patient care and further developing my understanding of healthcare economics from arguably the best in the field.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Acting as an example for other first-gen students that aspire to get into healthcare.
Sana Hamid
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Arcadia, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Eating all the yummy vegetarian and vegan food I can get my hands on, finding the cutest coffee spots, listening to crime podcasts and bingeing on anime.
Fun Fact: I am a huge Disney fan, I have visited Disneyland over 300 times in my short life span.
What excites you about starting your program?
I can't wait to meet the staff, faculty and students. UCSF is known to have the nicest and most collaborative people.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
It means I belong here and my effort to get here was valid. I had to break many barriers to get here in order to purse higher education.
Stephanie Ly
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: San Jose
Hobbies/Interest: Digital art, reading and writing, video games
Fun Fact: I love stickers!
What excites you about starting your program?
Meeting new people and making new friends!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being a person my family can always be proud of.
Lizbeth Martinez
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Ontario
Hobbies/Interest: Traveling, running, and learning new recipes.
Fun Fact: I am trying to visit all 50 states in the U.S. before I turn 30.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am most excited about learning the tools to help improve patient and pharmacist interactions as well as giving back to my community.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
First Gen to me means resilience and progress. It means paving the way for my family and community even though it is uncharted territory. Being First Gen has motivated me to work harder and take advantage of any opportunities along the way.
Martha Navarro Zapiain
Pronouns: She/Hers
Hometown: Lynwood, CA
Hobbies/Interest: I love spending time with my husband and family, taking scenic walks, visiting wineries, trying new boba places, and playing hide and seek with my niece and nephew. As of recently, I like to watch reality tv and anime.
Fun Fact: When I'm really stressed, I like to call my suegra (mother-in-law) to get all the juicy chisme (gossip).
What excites you about starting your program?
To finally be in the institution of my dreams that I know will prepare me with all the tools to become the best clinical pharmacist for my future patients in neglected communities.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being a First Gen means I get to navigate adversity and grow, as a person and scholar, in order to pave the way for my siblings and other first-generation students.
David Nguyen
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Los Angeles
Hobbies/Interest: I love to stay active and try to exercise daily, whether that be through weightlifting, running, or hiking. I also like to keep my mind right with meditation and journaling. I'm also a very big foodie, so I love trying all sorts of foods.
Fun Fact: I am a twin, and this is the first time we will be away from each other since birth!
What excites you about starting your program?
I am most excited to meet like-minded individuals and to learn even more about pharmacy and the impact that I could make in my communities through it.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First-Gen means that I have an opportunity to validate all the efforts of those who came before me. It also represents a unique culture and experience of sacrifice, perseverance, and social/cultural flexibility.
Phuc Nguyen
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: Da Nang, Vietnam
Hobbies/Interest: I really enjoy cooking and baking. I spend a lot of time in the kitchen, and that helps relieve stress for me. Recently, I have discovered my new hobbies of going to farmers' markets and taking care of my plants.
Fun Fact: It's kind of embarrassing to admit that I do not have a good sense of direction. I think it gets worse when I have to drive with passengers in my car. I can't imagine what it'd be like if we did not have navigation apps.
What excites you about starting your program?
Almost 8 years ago, I landed in San Francisco. I could hardly imagine that one day I would be attending my dream school UCSF. I'm excited to take on the challenges of my education and to spend my next few years in my favorite city of San Francisco.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
I'm fortunate for the opportunity to continue my education which my mom did not have because of the sacrifices that she has made. I'm grateful for all the people who have helped me along the way. They are my motivation to become a pharmacist who advocates for his patients and communities.
Mikaela Tayag
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Manila, Philippines
Hobbies/Interest: I love to sing and perform/watch musicals or theatrical plays! I also enjoy playing basketball with friends when I have free time.
Fun Fact: One fun fact about me is that I graduated high school at the age of 15. This is because in the Philippines, I was part of the last batch that did not go through grades 11 and 12.
What excites you about starting your program?
What excites me most about starting Pharmacy School is knowing that I am one step closer to achieving my goals. I am looking forward to meeting new people, exploring San Francisco, and starting my journey to a career in Pharmacy.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
For me, being First Gen means representing my country and making my family proud. It means that I was given the opportunity to achieve my goals, and become a role model to my siblings and to other people.
Asayena Viengmany
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Honolulu, HI
Hobbies/Interest: Surfing, Hiking, Manga/Anime
Fun Fact: I studied abroad in Thailand after taking two years of Thai classes at my university.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am most excited to meet a diverse group of people who share the same passion as I do in patient care!
What does being First Gen mean to you?
Being First Gen means that I have created an opportunity for other people to consider following the path I have taken and gain easier access to achieving their own ambitions. As a First Gen, I want to be courageous in my own path as I pave the way for others.
Kamila Wrobel
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: Chicago
Hobbies/Interest: I enjoy working out, cooking, and binge watching Netflix shows. I also love exploring new places, I hope to travel more after graduation!
Fun Fact: I can speak fluently in Polish.
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited to meet others that share the passion of pharmacy and helping the community. I can not wait to learn all different therapies available and how to work with others to find the best treatment.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
It means showing those around me that my background/history does not matter. If you are willing to work hard towards your goals and keep a high frequency, you will attract success and opportunities.
Wendy Xia
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hobbies/Interest: Arcadia, CA
Hobbies: DIY upcycled crafts, exploring environmental sustainability, and cooking.
Fun Fact: I like to de-stress by cleaning and organizing!
What excites you about starting your program?
I am excited about the opportunities to connect to the SF community through my program, from pharmacy practice experiences to student groups like SNPhA.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
To me, being First Gen means being empowered by my family and my community to overcome roadblocks and to share victories.
Physical Therapy
Leslie Muñoz
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: San Mateo, CA
Hobbies/Interest: Hiking; watching movies; traveling
Fun Fact: Danced Mexican Folkloric for 17 year
What excites you about starting your program?
I am most excited to learn, practice and overall be knowledgeable about the body.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
To me, first Gen means striving to be better, knowing it’s hard work but also knowing that it’s all worth it.
Hoang Tran Pham
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: Antioch
Hobbies/Interest: In my free time, I like to be active and moving. I play tennis whenever I get the opportunity and I engage in both powerlifting and bodybuilding. I also love to learn about business and finance. The idea of financial freedom has always interested me so I spend a lot of time looking into alternative streams of income outside of my career field.
Fun Fact: Because of my parent's financial situation, I began working to support myself at the age of 9.
What excites you about starting your program?
Working with a cohort who have many of the same work values. I'm looking forward to being able to network and create a community with my fellow program students.
What does being First Gen mean to you?
To me first-gen means more than just being the first generation to go to graduate school. It also represents the hard work of our parents and the success of what they hoped to achieve. For many first-gen students, our parents are immigrants who left their home country looking for a better life for their future children. Being first-gen shows that their sacrifice was worth it. We represent the will of our parents and are the manifestation of their dreams. Our presence in higher education also shows what people can achieve even if they come from less than optimal backgrounds. Being first-gen to me means dedication and hard work.
