Student

Emily S.

First-Year | Major: Psychology
2023-2024 Cohort

Emily is a Filipino first generation college student. Emily loves We Bare Bears, Kpop, dogs, and celebrating diversity. When she’s not studying, she’s reading, baking, or practicing Kpop choreography. Emily is incredibly eager about addressing mental health matters and looks forward to working in the fields of physical & mental health!

Ernesto C.

First-Year | Major: Political Science
2023-2024 Cohort

Ernesto is from the Central Valley of California. Ever since Ernesto was young he has dreamed of helping and serving as a political leader in his community and region. He hopes to be a positive influence and inspiration for his family and Hispanic community which thrives in the Central Valley. Ernesto is very excited to start his education at UC Berkeley in the Fall in order to further his own goals and academic interests. Some of these academic interests include History, Political Science , Philosophy, Linguistics and even Art.

Fiona Liu

Major: Economics
2026-2027 Cohort

Fiona is a first-generation student majoring in Economics from San Francisco! Her passion for business entrepreneurship and economics motivates her to learn more about this field, as she strives to start her own business in the future. In her free time, she loves cafe hopping, practicing self development, spending time with friends, and cooking! She can't wait to start a new chapter at Berkeley, especially within Yardi.

Guadalupe Lopez

Transfer | Major: Political Science
2024-2025 Cohort

Guadalupe, the son of immigrants from Michoacán, Mexico, was born and raised in San Jose, CA. As the first in his family to attend college, he is extremely passionate about merging his interests in policy and technology to drive social change and create a more equitable society. When Guadalupe isn’t endlessly scrolling through the New York Times home page, he loves spending time with his twin sister, going on long hikes, and enjoying a refreshing iced coffee from his favorite coffee shop!

Hannah Zheng

First-Year | Major: Undeclared Engineering
2024-2025 Cohort

Hannah is a first gen college student from the Bay Area planning to major in Engineering. Hannah is excited to attend UC Berkeley and pursue her passions in 3D printing and sustainable design. Outside of her studies, she enjoys swimming, badminton, reading and exploring local cafes and restaurants! Hannah hopes to delve into innovative technologies for either cars or medical devices!

Harmony Jones

First-Year | Major: Political Science
2025-2026 Cohort

Harmony Keyp-sen-ich Jones is a proud first-generation college student pursuing a major in Political Science with a minor in Native American Studies. Deeply committed to her Tribe and community, Harmony’s academic path is driven by her passion for advocacy and cultural preservation. Originally from a small town in Northern California, she is excited to embrace the energy and diversity of the Bay Area. In her free time, Harmony enjoys being outdoors, practicing various forms of art, and actively participating in cultural ceremonies. She looks forward to the new experiences,...

Hector Aldana Orneals

Major: Electrical & Computer Engineering
2026-2027 Cohort

Hector Aldana Is a first-generation transfer student majoring in Electrical & Computer Engineering. Hector is transferring from Long Beach City College, where he developed a strong interest in engineering, mentorship, community service, and personal growth. His journey as a first-generation Latino student motivates him to use education and technology to create meaningful impact for his community. Outside of academics, Hector enjoys running, creative projects, learning about self-growth and spending time with family and friends.

Hein Thaw Dar Aung

Transfer | Major: Civil Engineering
2024-2025 Cohort

Hein is a transfer student from Fremont CA. Hein moved to the US 3 years ago from Burma. He will be a junior Civil Engineering student at UC Berkeley this fall. In his free time, he enjoys playing badminton and soccer. Hein is passionate about how bridges and tall buildings are built. He aspires to build houses in the future.

Hulissa Aguilar

First-Year | Major: Political Science
2024-2025 Cohort

Hulissa was born and raised in the Bay Area and is very excited to attend UC Berkeley this fall. She values community and social justice advocacy work and is eager to find ways to be involved on Berkeley’s campus. She will be majoring in Political Science with the intent to pursue law school next; hoping to be involved in politics and/or immigration law in the future. Aside from her academic/career interests, Hulissa loves fashion, content creation, soccer, hiking, and painting!

Jessica Li

First-Year | Majors: Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
2024-2025 Cohort

Jessica mostly grew up in SoCal though she also spent much of her childhood in China where she developed her interests in machinery amidst the increasing automation across factories and workplaces. She will be majoring in EECS. She finds joy in sharing and exchanging her passion for robotics, technology, and innovation.