Jesse Borges, a student in the division's Environmental Studies department, received the Environmental Studies Special Opportunity Award.
Congratulations Jesse!
Department: Environmental Studies
What Scholarship did you receive? ENVS Special Opportunity Award
What year are you (1st year, 3rd year)? I transfered last fall as a junior.
College: I spend a good amount of time at College 8 because the Student Environmental Center and the Campus Sustainability Council are based there.
Where do you call home?
I live with wife and 2 children at Family Student Housing.
With all of the choices for college, what made UC Santa Cruz stand out?
I chose UCSC because it has the most beautiful campus in the state and the best Environmental Studies program.
What is your field of focus?
I am very interested in both Environmental Studies and Anthropology because I feel that they are inseparable and that we need to conserve both biological and cultural diversity.
What do you hope to do once you graduate from UC Santa Cruz?
I want to work for a nonprofit organization that works for positive and sustainable change for both ecological and social systems. I would love to contribute my skills of visual communication through graphic design, CAD, GIS, and artistic creativity in general.
What is one memorable moment that stands out for you as a student here?
It is not so much a single moment, but a growing process. Discovering the power that people have working together in an organization has been invaluable. Before coming here, my goals were more selfish, but I am realizing how I can be part of something bigger than myself.
How will this scholarship impact your academics/research?
I will feel more free to pursue my passions more fully and wholeheartedly. While having to
juggle school, work, and a family, sometimes I feel crazy for pursuing extra curricular
opportunities such as the Campus Sustainability Council or the sustainability movement in
general. Getting generous scholarships helps a great deal financially. Knowing that after my
time here is over, I won’t be buried in debt while also raising a family makes me very grateful.
Additionally, just knowing that there are others that believe in me gives me the confidence to
keep reaching for my goals. Thank you!
