Aggies share their successes on campus and throughout the world

October 3, 2022 — UC Davis is committed to provide dynamic, diverse and transformative global experiences for all Aggies. Whether that’s through cross-cultural programs, international collaboration or on-campus support, the goal is to reach 100 percent of UC Davis students.

During a Plugged in virtual event, students and recent alumni discussed their experiences on campus and around the world. This Q&A is adapted from the discussion, part of an ongoing virtual event series where UC Davis addresses some of the greatest challenges of our time.

What is UC Davis doing to empower the next generation of global leaders?

Christal Juarez Iniguez ’20: As a first-generation student at UC Davis, I was thrilled to take part in the Politics of Global Inequality Summer Program in Switzerland and the UCEAP (University of California Education Abroad Program) Cohort in Argentina and Chile. My studies abroad prompted me to join the International Center at UC Davis, where I worked diligently to motivate and engage other first-generation students. The variety of remote opportunities provided a broader reach, and the opportunity to work with people in locations all around the world. The diverse programs at UC Davis helped me obtain the skillset necessary to succeed in a virtual world.    

Evan Pearson ’22: My time at UC Davis has been filled with meaningful interactions across diverse groups on and off campus. The Global Affairs Newsletter is constantly full of opportunities. For example, I was able to get my start at the Global Student Leadership Summit. Through the program, I was able to develop the skills necessary to thrive in an international setting. The experience taught me the value of communication and collaboration, and I learned that you don’t have to travel to another country to have a culturally rich experience. 

How have your learning experiences at UC Davis prepared you to work with diverse communities around the world?

Tiffany Trinh ’18: My participation in the Nepal Community Technology and Sustainability Program Abroad allowed me to obtain hands-on experience with local issues in the areas of history, design, sustainability and irrigation. My time in Nepal taught me how to communicate with different groups of people and prepared me for volunteer experiences centered on the importance of cultural awareness and understanding. Meaningful programs and organizations on campus allowed me to learn from a variety of sources the fundamental need for relationship building.   

Michaela Krulee ’22: Aparticularly compelling “Introduction to Human Rights” course at UC Davis changed the trajectory of my studies and prompted my involvement in Article 26 Backpack, a student-run non-profit organization that focuses on expanding access to higher education for refugees and those displaced from war. My involvement at UC Davis taught me the value of partnerships, collaboration and higher education in particularly challenging areas such as war-torn countries. I gained profound leadership experience in a global setting without having to study abroad.   

What resources does UC Davis provide Aggies interested in a dynamic global learning experience?

Zachary Frieders (moderator): Global Affairs has purposefully built a partnership with the UC Davis Internship & Career Center to provide internship and project opportunities ranging from virtual micro internships to collaborations with global organizations. We encourage every student to meet with a counselor to determine the best global learning setting for their major and career goals. Here at UC Davis we are doing our part to engage students in meaningful ways by tailoring study abroad programs and providing world-class experiences at home.