Although my application to UC Davis was a mistake, it was the best mistake I have ever made. When I was applying to colleges, I temporarily decided I would attend a community college instead of a 4-year institution. However, my mom suggested I still use my free applications as a plan B; my mom is always right. When I was applying to 4-year schools, I thought I had applied to UC San Diego instead of UC Davis. I did not even consider applying to UC Davis, but when I received an acceptance letter, I visited UC Davis and knew it was the right one for me.
As I am
now a third year at UC Davis, my three years have been filled with many amazing experiences. During my first year in Davis, I focused on getting situated with the campus and my classes. I was originally Undeclared, but I always had a passion for the sciences. Although I did not know what I would major in, I continued along with science courses and eventually landed in the Biological Sciences major. I like the flexibility within this major. I have the choice to choose among various classes and emphases. Towards the end of my first year, I began to apply for multiple positions on campus, but I was not sure what I was looking for. Did I want to help people ? Work in an office? Work in a fast food chain? I applied to everything !! I luckily got a call from the College of Biological Sciences for a peer adviser position. This has been a wonderful job, as I have met amazing people and realized I enjoy helping others. This led to my next big decision, which career to pursue. Another amazing opportunity offered at UC Davis are the internships under the Internship and Career Center. I participated in a health related internship at the UCD Medical Center for two quarters. I worked one on one with children who were patients at the hospital, and because of this internship I realized I wanted to pursue a career in nursing. I loved helping the children and learning what the nurses are doing to assist them.
Overall, my biggest accomplishment in Davis is leaving home and being successful supporting myself. I work, attend school, and pay for all of my expenses. Although, I love my family and visit them any chance I have, I enjoy the idea of being independent and figuring plans out on my own. Luckily, I still have two more years to become more involved in the health field to gain more experience.
Brenda Garibay
Biological Academic Success Center Peer Adviser
Third Year, Biological Sciences Major: Emphasis in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior
STUDENT TO STUDENT 