Erika Villanueva English/Pre-Med Full-Time Counselor: Jessica Patton

Hello! My name is Erika Villanueva, and I am a graduating senior majoring in English: World Literature Concentration. I am the oldest of seven children and, therefore, the first in my family to attend college (my younger siblings are just beginning their college careers, too). As of a few months ago I was a pre-med student determined to go straight into medical school after graduation and eventually become a pediatrician; however, I have come to realize that at this point in my life I would much rather pursue my other interests. With that said, I am currently applying to graduate programs in literature and education (specifically academic counseling), in hopes of becoming either a teacher/professor or a counselor. Currently I am involved in the UCLA Alumni Association as a Bunche Scholar, and am the Co-Director for the Health Outreach and Pre-Medical Experience (H.O.P.E.) organization where we volunteer in underserved Santa Monica clinics. I am happy to say that this is my third year as a peer counselor for both the academic year and the Freshmen/Transfer Summer Program (F/TSP). Please feel free to drop by any time. I'll be glad to answer your questions whether they be about science or the humanities!