Chris DeMarinis-Gutierrez

Name: Chris DeMarinis-Gutierrez

College: Kresge

Department: Politics

What Award/ Scholarship did you receive? Valerie Fuette Scholarship

What year do you expect to graduate? Winter/Spring 2024

Where do you call home? Martinez, California

With all of the choices for college, what made UC Santa Cruz stand out? There were multiple reasons why I chose UC Santa Cruz. It is a highly regarded university set against a stunning backdrop—this decision to attend was easy. I am also fond of the art, music, food, and people in the Capitola/Santa Cruz region, which I often visit. My late father deeply admired Santa Cruz, and I know he would be proud that I am attending school in one of his favorite destinations.

What is your field of focus? I am currently studying politics at UCSC. Over the past year, I have been primarily interested in learning about political theories and the institutions of both the government and non-governmental organizations. I previously earned an associate's degree in the administration of justice at a community college. Combining these fields has allowed me to understand better how our institutions can exercise power by punishing and incarcerating individuals. 

What do you hope to do once you graduate from UC Santa Cruz?   After graduation, I am planning on furthering my education. The direction I go to further my education is still up in the air. On the one hand, I would like to attend law school, but I fear the costs of law school, and I would need to take the LSAT this summer. In the summer, I plan on doing the UC Sacramento program, a 10-week program that includes an internship and classes. While I am excited to do the program, it leaves me little time to prepare for the LSAT. So, I am considering getting into a master's program after graduating from UCSC. There are several master's programs I am looking at, whether it's public administration/policy, human resources, marketing, or the MBA. From there, I would like to enter the workforce, and after a few years, I will go back to school, whether it is for another master's degree or perhaps pursuing law school.

What is one memorable moment that stands out for you as a student here? My favorite moment at UCSC is meeting new people and conversing with my professors.

I consider myself shy and outgoing at the same time. Sometimes I am not in the most social of moods, but I also love chatting and getting to know others. And I have had the opportunity to meet many incredible and friendly people here on campus. My favorite thing is getting to know people and understanding what motivates them and the reasons they are furthering their education. Another benefit of making new friends is the educational aspect. If I have a friend in my class, we can discuss the subject matter and share our perspectives. Additionally, we can support each other if we encounter any challenges in the class.

As a transfer student, getting to know my professors can be challenging compared to those who will be on campus for a full four years. However, I have done my best to interact with many course instructors. Based on my conversations, it's clear that UCSC professors genuinely care about their student's success in academics and life. This feeling makes me feel welcome in every class, and I am proud to be a part of the UCSC community.

What is your one piece of advice for incoming students about life at UC Santa Cruz?  I encourage you to make new friends and connections on campus. The people you meet can significantly impact your college experience, and it's important to note that most individuals on campus are kind and welcoming. I recommend socializing and networking with others to create a study group, which can make your classes more enjoyable. Building social connections can also provide insight into post-college plans and inspire you to set your own goals for the future. Don't be afraid to reach out and expand your network.  

How will this scholarship impact your academic life /research?  Moving out of my mother's house at a young age has made it difficult for me to cover expenses such as tuition, rent, food, gas, clothing, and health insurance. I don't have a reliable financial safety net, so I often accumulate debt and work to offset it. The thought of dropping out and working one or two jobs to make ends meet has crossed my mind, but I fear that it would hinder my education and potentially limit my future career opportunities. Receiving this scholarship will allow me to prioritize my education without the burden of debt on my mind, giving me a much-needed boost of confidence. This scholarship not only lifts a significant financial burden off my shoulders but also allows me to refocus my attention on my studies and assist others.

One of my strengths is my ability to assist others who need help with the course curriculum. Whether it's academic or personal issues, I always strive to lend a helping hand. I make myself available to others by discussing the material we've learned or completed readings. Sometimes, the prompts given by the politics professors seem challenging, but I simplify them and break them down for those who may be struggling. My goal is not only to succeed but also to help others succeed.