Alice P
I attended Roseland Collegiate Prep High School in Santa Rosa. I am currently a third-year student at the University of California, San Diego, double majoring in Media Industries, Communications and Sociology. My academic interests center around storytelling, media, and community engagement, particularly how these are shaped through social and institutional infrastructures.
Career-wise, I hope to work in film, communications, or marketing. I am especially interested in roles that allow me to create purposeful and impactful narratives, particularly within film promotion and media marketing strategy. I want to create stories that connect to real lived experiences and emotions. Through my work, I aim to represent and amplify diverse, often unseen voices and bring attention to stories that fosters understanding and empathy.
Currently, I work two jobs in these related fields. I am a Residential Assistant on campus, where I mentor students as they navigate their college journey. Additionally, I serve as the sole media and marketing lead for my college’s residential community. I also work in the university’s Public Relations and Advancement department, where I have published articles highlighting scientific research and community-focused work being done at UC San Diego. Through this role, I have had the privilege of interviewing donors and alumni who have made meaningful contributions to the campus and broader community. I hope to continue growing as a storyteller and use my experiences to create impactful change wherever my path leads.
I was connected with 10,000 Degrees in high school through a program called AVID. As a first-generation student from a low-income background, I felt overwhelmed and underprepared when it came to navigating student loans and the overall financial burden of higher education.
How has the ORW Scholarship impacted your educational goals?
The Oakmont Rainbow Women scholarship has significantly eased my financial burden, allowing me to fully focus on my academics, campus involvement, and professional development. Without this support, I would not have been able to continue attending my university beyond my first year without taking on debilitating loans.
Beyond the financial support, it has been incredibly affirming to know that a community of women believes in me and is invested in my education and future. Growing up, I had limited exposure to the range of careers available to me. Growing up from a low-income background, my future often felt confined to a narrow and linear path. My parents, who were unable to complete their education beyond primary school and worked blue-collar jobs, did their best to support me, but I was not exposed to many career possibilities.
This scholarship not only gave me the opportunity to attend an institution that has broadened my horizons, but it also encouraged me to freely explore and pursue my interests while redefining what fields women from low-income backgrounds can break into.
Anything else you would like to share with ORWomen?
I just want to express my deepest gratitude. Truly, being supported by ORW has been both empowering and motivating, especially as a first-generation student. Your generosity and encouragement remind me that I’m not navigating this journey alone, and I hope to one day give back and support other students in the same way.
Thank you again for this wonderful opportunity and for all that you do. I am truly thankful to be part of such a caring and uplifting community.