Student Staff
Monneca Rim (Student Worker, Administration)
School of Dentisty, Class of 2027
[email protected]
Growing up as a first-gen college student, I had to navigate through most of my academic journey blindly and alone. I found out about the FG2C community late in my academic journey. Now I cannot imagine ever going through school without the invaluable support of the first-gen community. Being first-gen to me means having the opportunity to help pave pathways for others in our community. It also allows me to pursue my passion for teaching and mentoring. If you ever need someone to chat with or have any questions at all, please DO NOT hesitate to reach out to me!
Student Ambassadors
Dylan Holder (he/him)
School of Dentistry, Class of 2027
[email protected]
As a first-generation college student, I have had to navigate my academic and professional aspirations without the guidance and insights that come from familial experience. During my time in undergrad, I organized a mentorship program with local high school students who would be the first in their families to pursue higher education. I am passionate about first-gen mentorship and love doing my part to support the dedicated first-gen community, so I am always available to offer advice, share resources, and provide encouragement. I am incredibly proud of this identity and how it has shaped me throughout my academic journey!
Elaine Luu
School of Dentistry, Class of 2026
[email protected]
I was born in California and raised in Vietnam before moving back to the U.S. for high school. As a first-generation student, I understand the unique challenges we face, both in overcoming obstacles and celebrating success. My journey to dentistry has been nontraditional and it has taught me the value of perseverance, adaptability, and community support. Throughout community college, 4-year university, post-baccalaureate program, and now in dental school, I have proudly embraced this path. I couldn't have done this without the support from my family, friends, mentors, and the first-generation community. You are not alone! I know firsthand how important it is to have guidance and support when navigating a career in healthcare. I'm excited to share my experiences with you and help you build your own unique path in this field. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions at all.
Chynna Swift (she/her)
School of Medicine, Class of 2026
[email protected]
As a first-generation student, it has truly taken a village to help facilitate my success. Every achievement feels just as much my parents’ and my grandparents’ as it is mine, as I would not be where I am today without their unwavering love, support, and sacrifices. However, being first-gen and navigating higher education can also feel like a big, lonely puzzle as we figure out our place, where we belong, and what we “should” be doing to succeed. I am immensely grateful for the community of students I have found at UCSF FG2C who share similar experiences and allow me to feel seen, and hopefully you’ll decide to join that community, too! I’m happy to chat any time virtually or in-person if you’d like to talk about first-gen experiences. Please reach out and know that you are not alone!
Oscar Yip
Graduate Division - BMS, Class of 2026
[email protected]
As a first-generation student, I have found that having a supportive network of peers and mentors that understand my upbringing is an important factor to my wellbeing. Having a community that faces some of the same obstacles and share many of the same values is reassuring in many ways, not to mention a great space for meeting many wonderful, inspiring people. I am glad to have found the FG2C community here at UCSF, especially during the challenging (and rewarding) time of pursuing a graduate degree, and am excited to be part of a group that embodies hard work and resilience! I am happy to be a resource – please reach out if you’d like to chat.