It may sound like a tired cliché, but I’ve been dreaming of attending UCLA since my days in junior high. I collected Bruin newsletters and even had my very own UCLA sweatshirt. I was a true Bruin at heart. When the time came to apply for university, I took a bold risk and only applied to UCLA. And wouldn’t you know it, that’s where I ended up going.

My years at college completely transformed me. It was at UCLA that I learned to embrace my true self and feel comfortable in my own skin. I became deeply involved in student activism, immersed myself in the history department, and delved into campus politics. This path ultimately led me to a career in education and a lifelong commitment to being a catalyst for social change.

UCLA wasn’t just a picturesque campus; it was also a renowned research institution that ignited my passion for reading and writing. The university’s exceptional fine arts department treated us to a diverse array of cultural and contemporary concerts throughout the year. Honestly, there wasn’t a single thing I didn’t like about my time at UCLA. It provided everything I needed and everything I desired at that stage in my life.

I’ve already planted the seed in my children’s minds that they will be future Bruins. And who knows, maybe one day they’ll experience the same transformative journey that I did.