Name: Briana Prado
Department: Environmental Studies
What award/scholarship did you receive? CONCUR, Inc. Scholarship
What year are you (1st year, 3rd year)? 1st year
College: College Nine
Where do you call home? Southern San Diego
With all of the choices for college, what made UC Santa Cruz stand out? UC Santa Cruz did not only stand out because of its stunning location amongst the Redwoods but because of the great environmental studies program and connection the university has with the rest of the city. I live about 25 minutes south of downtown San Diego thus I don't frequently partake in large city movements and feel kinda disconnected in the suburbs. Being able to witness the level of activism in close proximity here in Santa Cruz has been really exciting and inspiring.
What is your field of focus? I am an environmental studies major combined with biology. I am thinking about double majoring in plant sciences but we will see soon. I would like to learn more about water systems and work in water conservation.
What do you hope to do once you graduate from UC Santa Cruz? I would like to help solve the water crisis by educating communities about alternative ways of collecting and using water in Southern California as well as northern parts of Mexico. I also would like to go back to our roots by promoting native plants.
What is one memorable moment that stands out for you as a student here? Geez, my time here has been one of my most exciting times in my life! A memorable moment was the first time I went to the Garden of Eden. I was absolutely amazed by the creation in the middle of the forest, I had never seen such a large natural flowing river in my life. Being from San Diego, free-flowing water is rare. Much less ginormous trees. However, whenever the sun is setting and makes the typically green forest a toasty orange-yellow hue at sunset is my favorite time of day and I am instantaneously grateful to be here.
What does this scholarship mean to you? I am really grateful for this scholarship. I had applied on a whim given that I am simply a freshman. Thus I was astonished when I was recognized. Earning this scholarship simply reaffirms and gives me confidence to continue pursuing my aspirations in full force.
