Peer Advocates

Meet the Peer Advocates

Amara

Major(s)/Emphasis/Minor:  Economics, Political Economy
Past Activities: English Tutor, Puentista
Current Activities: Part on campus clubs LBSA (Latino Business Student Association) and UWEB (Undergraduate Women in Economics at Berkeley)

Hey there! I am Amara Perez. I am a first generation, low income transfer student from San Jose, CA. I transferred to UC Berkeley in Spring 2024 from De Anza College. I am majoring in Economics and minoring in Political Economy. Ever since I took economics in high school, I loved how the subject had such real world applications, so I decided to pursue the subject further. In my first semester at Berkeley, I took a Political economy class with Professor Chang and enjoyed the study of economies and its effects on countries and communities. I have learned so much about the world around me in this one class, so I decided to pursue a minor in the subject. In my free time, I like to be out in nature by going to the beach, on a hike, or even just having a picnic. I also enjoy helping my community by frequently donating blood. As a first-born child, I love spending quality time with my family.  I am very excited to be a TRIO SSS Peer Advocate, so I can support you all on your journey here at Cal. Feel free to reach out with any questions or if you simply want to connect. Can't wait to meet you all!

Apolonia

Hello, my name is Apolonia Preciado Castillo. I recently transferred from Hartnell College, where I earned my associate degrees in Law, Public Policy, and Political Science. Currently, I am a senior studying Political Science with a minor in Chicano Studies.

My true passion lies in advocating for others, particularly in the areas of Basic Needs and Mental Health. I am deeply committed to supporting individuals with resources and providing assistance during challenging times. This dedication is what drives my interest in law, as I am committed to championing the voiceless and pursuing meaningful change.

I firmly believe in the importance of teamwork, leadership, and enhancing the student experience. In my free time, I enjoy watching TV, reading, and exploring new activities.

If you have any questions or just want to chat, feel free to reach out. I look forward to meeting you all!

Art

Major(s)/Emphasis/Minor: Nutritional Sciences: Physiology and Metabolism
Activities: Conducting research at Hellerstein Lab, gym rat, cooking, and guitar
Post-Graduate Plans: Pursue a postgraduate degree, become a registered dietitian, return to my CC to become a professor in nutritional sciences

Hi everyone! My name is Art. I am a first-gen Latino transfer student majoring in Nutritional Sciences coming from Mt. San Antonio College. I’ve lived in SoCal most of my life, raised next to the heart of LA in Highland Park. I love anything revolving around food, as my mom taught me everything she knew about Mexican cuisine. Becoming a gym rat and getting culinary training, I wanted to go deeper into the rabbit hole of how food is utilized by the body at the biochemical level.

Mt. SAC showed me the strength of community, and TRIO SSS continues to kindle that passion, so please ask me anything! If you want to learn more about cooking healthy AND tasty foods at a budget, physical health, “gainz” at the gym, guitar, or adjusting to the bay area as a transfer, anything, I’d be more than happy to help you as your Peer Advocate.

Fabian 

Major(s)/Emphasis/Minor: Political Science, Concentration in International Relations 
Activities: painting, mentorship, and community service 

Post-Graduate Plans: I want to attend law school and continue my work through law and public policy.

Hello everyone, my name is Fabian Molina and I'm a first-generation Latino transfer student from San Joaquin Delta College. I love nature, painting and just finding amazing areas to have a good time. A fun fact about me is that I love astronomy and have about 20 books all dedicated to learning about the universe and astrophysics. Although, I'm currently studying international governmental relations. One of my greatest influences getting into the field of government and law is Thurgood Marshall the first African American Supreme Court Justice and prominent civil rights attorney.  I grew up in Stockton, CA, a city known for its urban farming and annual asparagus festival. Despite its reputation for high crime rates, Stockton is incredibly diverse, named one of the most diverse cities in America in 2020. Inspired by the beauty that can be found despite the image, I'm passionate about engaging with my community to empower and protect what makes us extraordinary. I'm incredibly excited to be working with all of you, please feel free to reach out if you ever need someone to talk to!