Emily Jasso
What fears or anxieties did you have about going to college?
Because I'm a commuter and wasn't going to know very many people on campus, I was afraid that going to college would be a difficult change for me. I was anxious about whether or not I would be able to adapt to the college lifestyle, and if I would be able to build connections and make friends. As a first generation student, I also felt scared of the fact that I might not know about all the resources that are offered to me and was nervous about asking questions/asking for help when I needed it.
Step outside of your comfort zone! I know it is much easier said than done, but stepping out of your comfort zone will have a huge and positive impact on you. I didn't do anything besides go to my classes the first couple weeks of school, but once I started to get involved, I immediately felt a shift in my college experience. Also, BE PROUD of the fact that you're first-gen. You worked hard to get where you are today, so it's important to not only take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way, but also to enjoy every second of it!!!
I have a couple of career interests but one thing I know for sure, is that no matter what career I pursue, I want to be able to say that I am giving back to my community and having a positive impact on people. My plan at the moment though is that after getting my undergraduate degree, I hope to begin a career working with nonprofit organizations while attending graduate school. Once I get my master's degree and have been working in nonprofits for a couple of years, I hope to obtain some other type of job (like maybe a police officer, social worker, etc.) where I can work for a couple more years and then, "settle-down" for a more long-term of a job in the FBI.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, exercising, and watching TV. I like to read all types of books, but some of my favorite genres are thrillers/mysteries, dystopias, and fantasy. I also really like staying active - some of my favorite forms of exercise are going on walks/hikes, going on runs, and weight lifting! Staying active helps me relieve stress so I try to get my steps in by walking to my classes or going on walks with my family and my dog Bagel! I also really enjoy watching TV. I'm always up to watch a Disney movie or start a new tv show on Netflix. My favorite movie though is Coraline and my favorite tv show is The Flash!
- My family (including my dog) 🐶
- phone/computer 💻
- Survival kit 💪
This academic year, I will be President for the club Step Up: Inspiring Women to Inspire Girls and Secretary for First Generation at the Beach organization. I'm also involved in the University Honors Program and serve as a President's Ambassador on campus! Being involved on campus is really fun so I definitely recommend it! You can always reach out to me to learn more about any of the orgs/clubs I am involved in. :)
