Jasmin Bedolla, originally from the San Francisco Bay area, is a summer 2024 graduate of the Education Department’s M.A./credential program. She won the Kathryn Cheney Merriam scholarship to help her complete her degree. UC Santa Cruz interviewed her about her academic experience.
What is your field of focus?
I’ve dedicated my entire career to the field of education, nurturing a lifelong passion for working with children. This passion led me to pursue my undergraduate degree in education at UC Santa Cruz, a decision fueled by my commitment to making a difference in young lives. Encouraged by the exceptional opportunities and the overwhelmingly positive feedback about the program, I decided to further my expertise by enrolling in the Master and credential program. This step was not just about advancing my education; it was a stride toward fulfilling my calling in the educational sector.
What do you hope to do once you graduate from UC Santa Cruz?
I plan to begin my career in teaching after graduating from UC Santa Cruz. I also aspire to return to UC Santa Cruz in the future to pursue my doctoral degree.
What memorable moment stands out for you as a student here?
The most memorable moments for me as a student here are feeling welcome and making friends. I am very shy and have met amazing people with whom I am now very close friends. I also can never forget how compassionate my professors were during my time here as a student. They supported my learning and gave me great knowledge for my career.
With all of the choices for college, what made UC Santa Cruz stand out?
I’ve always had my heart set on UC Santa Cruz. I love the proximity of the campus to my home and the beautiful surroundings. As a child, I visited Santa Cruz every summer and fell in love with the city. Additionally, I appreciate the welcoming nature of the students at this school, which aligns with my personality.