Joseline Arreaga (College Ten, Sociology and Psychology ‘19)

Motivation for college: My parents’ sacrifices and hopes for me to obtain a college degree have always motivated me to pursue higher education. As the eldest in my family, I also feel a sense of responsibility in making this opportunity more feasible for my younger sister. Overall, my family's background and my personal commitment to support disadvantaged youth has continuously influenced my college-bound interest.

Resources that have supported your success: The EOP Bridge program, Undocumented Student Services, and professors from the Sociology and Psychology department have all supported my academic and social well-being while attending UCSC. Friends and family have also provided unwavering support throughout the past four years.

What worked best: Communication has been essential in providing me the opportunity to have someone I can always count on for emotional support. They offer advice when needed and understand that some of the institutional barriers at UCSC make my undergraduate experience a bit challenging (it's not always pretty or easy). Most of all they know when to listen and always try to be understanding.

Wanted parents/guardians to know: As I go into my fourth year, I hope they realize that my college experience will ultimately be more important than my college degree. A diploma carries a certain amount of weight in the real world, but I hope that they also find value in the journey that leads up to graduation. I say this because a diploma does not guarantee employment. Often times, it is the experiences and relationships made throughout your college experience that shape future endeavors.    

Some advice I can offer to parents: It's a learning process for both you and your student! Lean on each other and try to find comfort in knowing that this is an important milestone.