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Nelly Zapata-Castillo

Political Science · 4th Year · Marshall

Nelly Zapata-Castillo
  • South Central, Los Angeles

Nelly's Story

What does being first-gen mean to you today, and has your understanding of it changed over time? 

Being first-generation to me means learning how to navigate systems that weren’t built with my family’s experience in mind, while still knowing I belong in those spaces. Over time, my understanding has shifted from seeing it mainly as a disadvantage to recognizing it as a strength.

What is the most important lesson you've learned during your first-gen journey at UCSD? 

The most important lesson I’ve learned during my first-gen journey at UCSD is that asking for help is not a weakness but a skill. Learning to seek out resources, mentors, and community has shown me that I don’t have to navigate college alone and that advocacy for myself is part of succeeding.

What advice would you give to incoming first-gen Tritons? 

Trust yourself and give yourself grace, you’re learning an entirely new system, and that takes time.

What skills or personal strengths have you developed through your first-gen experience, and how do you see them shaping your future? 

Through my first-gen experience, I’ve developed resilience and self-advocacy. I’ve learned how to navigate unfamiliar systems and turned challenges into opportunities for growth. I’ve also strengthened my empathy and understanding the importance of uplifting others who face barriers similar to mine.

In what ways has your first-gen journey influenced your personal or professional direction? 

As a first-generation student, I learned early how to navigate unfamiliar systems and advocate for myself. That experience has guided my professional path toward work focused on access, equity, and creating opportunities for others who face similar barriers.

What impact or legacy do you hope to leave at UCSD, and what are your future aspirations? 

I hope to leave UCSD more inclusive and accessible than I found it by helping amplify student voices and strengthening support for first-generation and underrepresented communities. My future aspirations are to pursue a career in law and public service, where I can advocate for equitable policies and create opportunities for those historically excluded from decision-making spaces.