Allison Majano (Latin American and Latino studies, education, democracy, and justice, psychology, John R. Lewis, ‘26) received the 2025 Walsh Family Scholarship, which provides an award of up to $5,000 based on academic merit and financial need. This award will allow her to devote more time to research and volunteer work and stay focused on her long-term goals.
The UC Santa Cruz development team asked Majano about her decision to come to UCSC, her experiences on campus, and finding her path after graduation.
Q: What made UCSC stand out to you?
A: UCSC stood out to me because of its strong commitment to social justice and the opportunity to engage in meaningful research with supportive faculty. As a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), UCSC’s dedication to uplifting Latinx students and communities deeply resonated with me. It felt like a place where my identities, goals, and values would not only be supported but celebrated. The campus’s natural beauty also played a big role in making it feel like a welcoming environment.
Q: What memorable moment stands out to you during your time as a UCSC student?
A: I had the opportunity to participate in Paso Seguro as part of one of my LALS classes. It was an embodied art project led by Colombian artist Carolina Caycedo. The meaning behind the art project was to explore the connections between whale migration, environmental risk, and U.S. border politics through movement, reflection, and collective presence.
Q: What advice would you offer to incoming students about life at UCSC?
A: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek out community. UCSC can feel big at first, but once you find your spaces, whether in a class, a club, or a quiet study spot, it becomes a place where you can truly thrive.
Q: What are your career aspirations after graduating from UCSC?
A: I plan on becoming a school psychologist, with a focus on supporting students from underserved communities by advocating for accessible and culturally responsive mental health services in schools.