Luis Garcia (Latin American and Latino studies, Cowell, ‘25) received the 2025 Walsh Family Scholarship, which provides an award of up to $5,000 based on academic merit and financial need. One of Garcia’s mentors, Professor Catherine Ramírez, helped him apply for the award, which has enabled him to focus on his final quarter of classes, work as a teaching assistant, and conduct research.
The UC Santa Cruz development team asked Garcia about his time at UCSC, his career goals following graduation, and his advice to incoming students.
Q: What made UCSC stand out to you, and what has been your most memorable moment on campus?
A: UCSC stood out because of its LALS department and the campus’s history of student activism. I felt naturally gravitated towards it. The natural landscape, obviously, stood out to me. I am not used to seeing so many trees in one area. I know, it sounds crazy, but I live in a “warehouse city,” so it’s very different from where I grew up. It was the change I needed for me to grow.
My favorite memory is a recent one: presenting my research on student activism through the Dolores Huerta Research Center. The feedback we got from the audience was nice to hear, and it felt good doing something that benefits my community.
Q: What are your career aspirations after graduating from UCSC?
A: I hope to become a teacher and eventually pursue a Ph.D. to become a professor. I want to end up teaching at the community college level. I specifically want to teach at my local community college, San Bernardino Community College. I want to continue working with youth from working-class and immigrant backgrounds to help them see the value of their experiences and voices in education.
Q: What advice would you offer to incoming students about life at UCSC?
A: Don’t be afraid to talk and ask questions. Our campus can feel secluded sometimes, but don’t let that discourage you from doing what you’re passionate about. UCSC is a place where you can grow not just academically but personally, especially if you lean into a community and ask for support when you need it. You don’t have to do it all alone. One of my mistakes in community college was never asking for help. I was too shy and stubborn, so that’s what held me back. UCSC helped me develop communication skills to be able to connect and engage with my peers.