Past Mentors

Name: Diana Sernas (aka Dianasaurus-Rex)

Year: 4th

Major: Mathematics

Why?: We have the opportunity to address the retention rate of first-generation college students, like myself, by supporting our scholars to be the scientists (researcher, medical practitioner, etc.) they aim to be. As an extension of EOP, I have the privilege to create a space to support our scholars holistically, because I understand how things outside the classroom come with us into the classroom. And I want everyone to experience that awesome feeling when you embrace all of what makes you... you (i.e. their background and identities).

Name: Eliana Duran

Year: 2nd year

Major: Proposed Biomolecular Engineer

Why do you like being a SEMILLA Scholar Peer Mentor: Being a SEMILLA Scholar’s Peer Mentor has been one of the greatest experiences I have had as an undergraduate student. College can be very intimidating for first-generation STEM students, so the fact that SEMILLA emphasizes the success for first-year college students motivated me to become a mentor and being able to support them in any way I can.

Name: Florencia Gregorio

Year: Second

Major: Mathematics

Why do you like being a SEMILLA Scholar Peer Mentor: Being a SEMILLA Scholar Peer Mentor has allowed me to be part of the life of amazing students who want a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities. I also enjoy that everyone in the SEMILLA team helps and supports each other.

Name: Carlos Oscar Torres Facio

Year: 5th year

Mayor: Mathematics with a minor in Computer Engineering

Why do you like being a SEMILLA Scholar Peer Mentor:  I am a SEMILLA Scholar Peer Mentor because it is a way for me to share with students and my community the experiences, knowledge, wisdom, and tools that I have developed over the years as an undergrad student.  

It allows me to guide students on how to navigate the university educational and social systems in order for them to have a rich and memorable experience here at UCSC. Lastly, I am a SEMILLA Peer Mentor because I believe that this position provides me with the opportunity to support the retention of students pursuing a STEM degree.

Name: Juan Ayala

Year: 3rd Year

Major: Electrical Engineering Major

Why do you like being a SEMILLA Scholar Peer Mentor: Being able to provide advice that I never received my first year is the greatest opportunity. I know I make a difference when I see the signs of relief on my mentees faces.