Students

Greetings! My name is Monica Newberry. I was born in Ohio, but I've lived in Merced, California, most of my life. I am a first-year Liberal Studies Major. After graduating, my career plan is to become an elementary school teacher. On campus, I am an active member of the Hearth Club. Outside of school, I enjoy going out with friends, going to arcades, listening to music, playing video games, or just watching shows/movies. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to the Students First Center! We are always here to help make your journey brighter!

Hello! My name is Ivan Aguilar Gonzalez, I am a first-year majoring in Literatures in English with a minor in the School of Natural Sciences Education Program. I was born in Watsonville, California, and raised in its surrounding area, but I have spent a large chunk of my life here in the Central Valley, so I’m used to the heat. I am very excited about what's to come on my journey here at UC Merced, and I hope to help others like me have as strong a transition to campus life as I’ve had.

Hello! My name is Armaan Singh; I was born in Punjab India and moved here when I was 3. I am a first-year Mechanical Engineering major, and I chose UC Merced because I enjoy the welcoming environment it brings to anyone who wants to attend or is attending. I enjoy hanging out with my friends and playing sports. If you see me around, come say hi!

Hey Everyone! My name is Citlali Espejel, but you can call me Lali and I am a transfer student. I'm a Business Economics major and I'm very excited to be a Bobcat. In my free time I love to cook, spend time outdoors, and travel. If you ever see me around campus, don't be shy to say hi, I love meeting new people.

Hello there! My name is Brandon Vasquez and I am honored to be part of the Digital Marketing Team for the Students First Center (SFC) at UC Merced! Coming from Hanford, California, I am no stranger to the Central Valley and its heat, and I am so grateful to be attending UC Merced as a Pre-med Neuroscience B.S. major. I am excited to use my skills and views to help relay important information regarding SFC deadlines and life on campus. Look out for posts from the Students First Center and come ask your questions!

Hi! My name is Melissa Duarte, I'm from from Oakdale, California. I am a second year pursuing a Human Biology major and a minor in Psychology. UC Merced has allowed me to grow as a person and create new connections by joining organizations like Delta Gamma. Outside of campus, I enjoy spending time with my friends & family, as well going to the gym or reading new books! Being part of the Digital Marketing Team here at the Student First Center gives me the ability to grow my creativity to a new level, as well as help my peers find the resources to succeed .

Hello! My name is Hans Fox, and I am a third-year student studying Literatures in English. I was born in Mt. Shasta, California, and raised in a tiny town in its shadow, McCloud. I love to read books, plays and poetry both for my classes and in my free time. When I’m not doing that, I’m writing short stories and songs and playing with my band Tsunami Warning. I’m always here to help

Hello! My name is Roberto Castellanos , I am from Patterson CA . I am a second year, majoring in Mechanical Engineering. On campus, I am a member of The Campus Activities Board (CAB).  In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my doing sport playing soccer going to the gym and playing video games .I f you have any questions, please feel free to visit the Students First Center!

Hello! My name is Luis Salvador Valdivia, and I am a third-year Biomedical Engineering major here at UC Merced. As a first-generation college student, I understand that starting college can feel overwhelming, which is why I enjoy helping students navigate the enrollment process and connect with the resources they need to succeed. UC Merced has given me the opportunity to grow through research, build meaningful friendships, and become more involved on campus. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, playing soccer, hiking, and spending time with my friends and family.

Hello! My name is Anabel Cardenas, I was born and raised in Planada, CA. I am a second year, majoring in Communication and Media. On campus, I am a member of The Campus Activities Board (CAB).  In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. If you have any questions, please feel free to visit the Students First Center!