Brenda De Jesus Acosta

Name:  Brenda De Jesus Acosta

Department: Education 

What Award/ Scholarship did you receive? Richard and Cindy Morley Award in Education

What year do you expect to graduate? July 2020

Where do you call home?  Half Moon Bay, California.

With all of the choices for college, what made UC Santa Cruz stand out?  I attended UCSC as an undergraduate and despite being accepted to other colleges for graduate school, I love USCC! I fell in love with the trees, trails, and deer on my way to class. The Education department has allowed me to grow as an educator every day. UCSC offered the requirements I was looking for in my Graduate Studies.

What is your field of focus?  Education M.A, Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, Bilingual Authorization in Spanish.

What do you hope to do once you graduate from UC Santa Cruz?  I hope to be able to teach at an elementary school once I graduate. I appreciate that the department has let me student teach in Half Moon Bay during the year and hope to be able to stay in Half Moon Bay as a teacher.

What is one memorable moment that stands out for you as a student here? During graduate school, one memorable moment has been convincing our professor to hold class outside! Spending time in the basement of McHenry for classes can be tiring, so our class convinced our professor to hold the second half of class outside of McHenry. We sat at the tables outside and on the floor, and our professor continued with his lecture and our group presentations. It was nice to enjoy some fresh air and the redwood trees!

What is your one piece of advice for incoming students about life at UC Santa Cruz?  I would say enjoy the surroundings. Walk to class if you can, take in the beauty of the campus. Connect with your peers and professors. I have made wonderful and lifetime connections while here!

How will this scholarship impact your academic life /research?  This scholarship greatly alleviates some of the financial stress for me. It allows me to continue focusing on my work at UCSC and for the school I student teach at. Thank you!