Leslie Hernandez

Major(s) and Minor (if any)

Statistics & Data Science 

If you are a first-generation and/or income-eligible student, what has your experience been like at UCSB? 

It was a big change for me moving away from home as a first generation student, I had to adjust academically and socially in this new environment. The feeling of having to independently navigate this experience far away from my friends and family back home was overwhelming at first, however I learned quickly that there are so many opportunities and spaces to meet people which help make the adjustments easier. Meeting new people and putting myself out there was not easy, but I learned that it was necessary in order to build a supportive community.

What would you like to share with students about your experience at UCSB?

My UCSB experience has been amazing and I am truly grateful to be in the position I am at. It has been incredible meeting so many people on campus from all over the world whether that be from classes, clubs, or events. I am so lucky to have the support system I have both back at home and at Santa Barbara. Although my academic journey has not been a straight path, I wouldn’t change a thing, and even though it may not be easy at times, I know I have so many different types of support at UCSB that I can rely on at the end of the day!

Top tips for fellow students? (Study tips, self care hacks, fav resources on campus, etc)

My top tip would be to utilize all of the campus resources and take advantage of events! UCSB offers free tutoring for certain topics, food banks, counseling, and much more. I personally loved CLAS tutoring as it provided more small-grouped settings for tutoring and I was able to ask specific questions which allowed me to truly grasp concepts with the amazing tutors there. Additionally, there are many amazing non-academic events which can be used as a way to meet new people, find new activities, or just relax!

Best advice you've received that has helped you at UCSB.

The best advice I’ve received is that it is okay to not know your plans so early in your academic journey, change is normal. College is a place where you are able to explore what you really like and figure out your interests, you learn so much more about yourself and what you enjoy, so don’t be afraid to change directions.

Why did you choose to be an EOP peer mentor/office assistant?

As a first generation student, coming to university was definitely overwhelming and it is easy to feel lost or confused. I hope to give back to students who might have been in my shoes and offer them guidance and assistance of any kind in order to help their experience here at UCSB. Whether that be helping them register for classes, finding/guiding them to resources, or even just be a person to chat with, I hope to be a support system they feel comfortable enough to confide in and ask for support.