College-going looks different for everyone. For young Latinx/Chicanx scholars, there has long been a need to see people and hear stories that resonate with their lived experiences. Through the stories found in Mi Universidad, these students can connect with the paths of those who came before them like never before.
Mi Universidad, a platform within UCTV’s Education Channel, gives an in-depth look at college-going from the Latinx/Chicanx perspective. Mi Camino—the platform’s flagship series—features interviews from faculty and alumni. The interviewees discuss their journeys through education, from childhood to university, and beyond. Some are local to San Diego, while others come from out of state, and even out of the country. What do they all have in common? Their paths led them to UC San Diego.
Take Araceli Cervantes, an alumna who graduated from UC San Diego with a major in Psychology and a minor in Theatre and Dance. Araceli is a San Diego native who started dancing at 10 years old and pursued her passion as a UC San Diego Triton. During her time here, she learned and practiced under mentors like Professor Tony Caligagan, and eventually became a world champion in several styles of Latin dance.
Araceli Cervantes, Dancer and Actress
That wasn’t UC San Diego’s only impact on her trajectory; it was her experience working for Housing, Dining and Hospitality on campus that led her to work in HR. Now, the former Triton and international champion combines her skills and passion to provide event coordination for salsa conferences.
Fellow interviewee Daniela Valdez-Jasso found her way to UC San Diego as an Associate Professor of Bioengineering at the Jacobs School of Engineering. She was born into a family of Mexican diplomats and spent her childhood traveling the world. After settling in the US, she studied Applied Mathematics, eventually getting a PhD in Biomathematics. Along the way, she discovered a passion for mentorship. At UC San Diego, she works with undergraduate and graduate students and shares her culture to create a welcoming learning environment.
For a young student unsure of their path, Araceli shows how varied their educational journey can be, while educators like Professor Valdez-Jasso allow students to learn something new from someone who understands them and their culture.
By sharing their stories, Mi Camino shows that the path of a scholar is limitless and bright. UC San Diego Tritons come from all walks of life, and their paths through education are as unique as they are. From glimpses into the trajectories of distinguished faculty, to stories of triumph from those students who came before, current and future Tritons can look to Mi Camino for inspiration and reassurance.