USC First Generation Student Assembly!
Fight on First Gen!
usc's first generation student assembly is a student organization under USG that aims to build a community for students who are the first to attend college. find everything you need as a first gen student here! visit our instagram for more information about upcoming events and ways to get involved.have any ideas of what you need from us or would like to see? fill out the form below!
first gen senior banquet!
event spotlight!
FGSA is celebrating first-generation graduates and their achievements at the first ever inaugural First Gen Graduation Banquet.Join us on April 13th at Newman Hall at the Caruso Center, where doors open at 4:30 PM. The program kicks off at 5 PM with a dinner buffet at 6 PM, promising an evening of reflection, inspiration, and community.Share stories, connect with peers, and honor the resilience of each other.RSVP to secure your spot, as we come together to celebrate success and empower future generations. Spots are limited.
we are extremely proud and excited to announce that we have officially transitioned from a student union to a USG recognized student assembly! Fall 2023 has all led up to this, and we are so proud to be the body that is here to support and represent the first generation family at USC!!!FGSA marks the beginning of a legacy which we will establish together for the benefit of first-generation college students and we are so excited to serve the first generation community at USC on a whole new level! We'd like to extend a HUGE thank you to every single first gen family member that has supported us throughout the semester.The confirmation of our assembly is truly historic, as neither the university or its students have witnessed immense empowerment, representation, and access to resources for our community. It is finally time for us to use FGSA as a vehicle for change, and as an official part of USG we are ready to smash the walls that are holding us back!
FIGHT ON FIRST GEN!!!
announcing...
the first generation student ASSEMBLY!!
for real this time :)
org spotlight!
every week, we like to spotlight a fellow student org, club, or opportunity that can help you learn about what opportunities are available to you! this week we want to spotlight...
Pan-African Student Association
(PASA)
"We are a club that makes space for the diversity of the African Diaspora. Join us for fun meetings, heated discussions, and lit social events. In the past we have had versus battles with LMU, parties on the beach, sip and paints, and much more! We also host the annual Afro-ball where everyone is welcome!"
wish that was your org? submit the form below and we'll contact you when you're featured!
fgsa wouldn't be possible without the 15 individuals that make up our executive board! we are proud to have the following serve on our board this year...Administration:
Andrew Mecatl
Celine De Villa
Angel JimenezAdvocacy:
Patrick Nguyen
Emily Amador
Nuha LakhaniProgramming:
Mel Ayala
Somi Awasthi
Quinnie NguyenCommunications:
Shriya Patel
Iris Zheng
Lena Palomares
Serena YangFinance:
Farrah Diogene
George Varela
introducing...
fgsa's 23-24 executive board!
Resources
presented by USC
here we've gathered all the links we can find with information to guide you, from USC specific resources to nationwide programs for first generation students.
other
are we missing something here that you think would be helpful? let us know!
First Generation+ Success Center
here's all the information on the FG+SC here on USC's main campus in Tutor!
general center information
hours
monday: 9am - 8pm
tuesday: 9am - 5pm
wednesday: 9am - 8pm
thursday: 9am - 5pm
friday: 9am - 5pm
saturday: CLOSED
sunday: CLOSEDlocation
TCC 224
walkup the stone steps in the center of Tutor Campus, turn left and walk all the way down the balcony. the FG+SC is going to be the last door on your right!
important links
Career Building Opportunities!
looking for ways to start your professional life? here we've compiled some internship & career-building opportunities and resume tips and tricks to get you started!
are we missing something here that you think would be helpful? let us know!
Finding Campus Jobs
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| USC Career Fair | In-person recruiting with companies and USC offices for work-study jobs, non-work-study jobs, and internships. Typically held at the beginning of August and January on campus. |
| ConnectSC | Online platform for USC students to see jobs available. Log in with your USC NetID. |
| In person networking | Oftentimes, many offices and buildings are open to hiring students for work-study and non-study jobs but do not explicitly post job openings on ConnectSC. It is highly encouraged to ask offices if they are hiring in-person. Some common places that students find these opportunities are the USC Bookstore, USC Libraries, Customer Service Centers at Residential Colleges, offices in departments/admissions, etc. |
Finding Resources for Career Advancement
Campus Resources
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| USC Career Fair | In-person recruiting with companies and USC offices for work-study jobs, non-work-study jobs, and internships. Typically held at the beginning of August and January on campus |
| USC Career Center | At the in-person office, there are USC employees that are designated to help with career counseling. On their website, you can navigate and explore different industries and careers |
| Your academic advisor/college | Check email newsletters from your academic advisor/college that often contain available opportunities and jobs for your area of study. Sometimes, they will post news about recruiting events as well |
| ConnectSC | Online platform for USC students to see jobs available |
| Clubs/Student Organizations | Clubs and student organizations also have email newsletters and resources that contain jobs and opportunities as well |
| Handshake | The Handshake platform is a website and mobile app designed for college students and recent graduates to be connected to job and internship opportunities. It's a place where students can explore potential career paths, search for job listings, and interact with employers looking to hire new talent. |
Online Resources
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Well Found | Well Found is a platform that connects startup companies and early-stage businesses to job opportunities within the tech and entrepreneurial space. |
| LinkedIn is a social networking platform specifically designed for professionals and job seekers. It serves as a virtual platform where you can build and showcase your professional identity, connect with other professionals, and explore various career opportunities. | |
| Y Combinator | Y Combinator, also known as YC, is a prestigious startup accelerator. While Y Combinator's primary focus is on early-stage startups, the startups working with YC are often looking for student employment. |
| Company Website | Using a company's website can be an effective way to find job opportunities and gather valuable information about the company's culture, values, and work environment. |
| GitHub* | GitHub was primarily known as a platform for hosting and collaborating on software development projects. However, some people have used GitHub to upload repositories of internship opportunities that are searchable by keywords. GitHub primarily has resources relating to tech/software engineering (SWE). |
| Reddit* | Similar to GitHub, Reddit will have threads posted by people on forums (for example: search r/internships). Reddit will have opportunities posted for opportunities of all areas of study. |
*Highly encourage to use the resources listed above and to not use GitHub and Reddit as primary sources for job hunting.
Our Newsletters
our newsletters are a "tldr" of our website which will give you a sense of what events to look out for, updates from your eboard, and other action items for fgsa. see our current and past newsletters here!sign up to be on the mailing list below!
current
past
Meet the Executive Board!
meet the people in charge! we plan, and pay for, all your events, provide active representation in undergraduate student government, and send you our newsletter and create this beautiful website. learn our faces so if you recognize us on campus you know you can come up and talk to us as a friend! we all are dying to meet you, so walk up to us and ask us about fgsa or even to grab lunch :)
The Administration Team!
come to us for all things USG - we have office hours, so come & stop by to ask us questions or have lunch :)
Co-Executive:
Celine De Villa
she/her/siya
Hi I'm Celine!I am currently a fourth year pre-law student at USC. I major in Political Science with a minor in International Relations. I am also pursuing a graduate degree at USC Gould for Master’s of Studies in Law.
I was born and raised in San Jose, California (BAY AREAAAA).
I love cooking, listening to podcasts, karaoke, deep conversations, and my favorite color is yellow!Fun Facts About Me: I have 6 piercings (so far), I've done competitive dance for 13 years of my life, and of course, I can drive both automatic and manual cars! I'm also (kinda) trilingual.Ask me about: Housing, Cover Letters, Resumes, Writing Emails, Imposter Syndrome, Progressive Degree Program, dealing with guilt from moving away from home, the best dining hall, or about anything really! :,)Somewhere else to find me: FutureNext Consulting Firm, Trojan Catholics, Society of Women in Law, Blackstonians Honor Society, In N OutMy LinkedInMy Office Hours:
Wednesdays:
12:30p - 2:30p (@STU 313)
2:30p - 4:30p (@FG+SC)
Co-Executive:
Andrew Mecatl
he/him
Hi I'm Andrew!I am a fourth year majoring in Law, History and Culture with a minor in Legal Studies. I am also pursuing my Progressive Degree in Masters of Studies in Law. I am from Los Angeles and have lived here all my life! My favorite hobbies will always be thrifting and eating out/sightseeing with friends!Fun Facts About Me: I’m a Pisces, I’ve ridden a camel before, I’m an ice cream & cheeseburger enthusiast, I can finish a whole bucket of movie theater popcorn, I love animals, I think I could walk to any place no matter its distance, and I have stomach problems :(Ask me about: Housing/Leasing, Financial Aid, JEP Pre-Law Project, Applying to Internships, Imposter Syndrome, the Latinx Experience, the Low-income Experience, the Child of Immigrants Experience, or anything else that is on your mind!Somewhere else to find me: Southern California Moot Court, Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, Blackstonians Pre-Law Honor Society, and USG!My LinkedInMy Office Hours:
Wednesdays:
1p - 3p (@FG+SC)
Assistant Director:
Ángel Jimenez
he/him
Hi I'm Ángel!I am currently a fourth-year junior majoring in Sociology and minoring in Dance. I grew up in El Monte, CA, about 20 minutes away from USC (without LA traffic, of course). I love baking, working out, hiking, thrifting, organizing, and colorguard!Fun Facts About Me: I’ve lasted over a minute on a mechanical bull, I’ve played every Pokémon game on console, and I had 8 teeth taken out at the USC School of Dentistry (7 of which were in one sitting).Ask me about: My Maymester in Oaxaca, Being a Resident Assistant, Being a USC Student Ambassador, Imposter Syndrome, Resumes, Graduating in 4+ Years, Time Management, and/or Taking out Loans.Somewhere else to find me: Giving Tours Around USC, Working out at the Lyon Center, Studying at the FG+SC, Raving Around LA, and Tacos Tamix!My LinkedIn
The Advocacy Team!
come to us for all things advoacy - we are here for you and anything you'd like us to raise concerns about to USG, President Folt, and more!
Advocacy Liaison:
Patrick Nguyen
he/him
Hi I'm Patrick!Hey everyone! I'm a sophomore majoring in Biopharmaceutical Sciences and minoring in Applied Analytics. I'm from Orange County, California. In my free time, you can find me watching copious amounts of TV and movies. I also enjoy playing the guitar and singing along to my favorite artists. I'm also an Overwatch addict and enjoy watching conspiracy theory videos.Fun Facts About Me: I played Mufasa in my high school's production of The Lion King. On Halloween Day, I walked around USC in broad daylight dressed up as Matt Murdock from the Marvel TV show Daredevil, thinking people would also dress up.Ask me about: Cold emailing to join research teams, building a LinkedIn, applying for internships, resume writing, diversity career programs, networking, time management, finding mentors, advocating for yourself, and what the best TV shows/movies are. I'm chronically online and open to making new friends so I'm always a text/email away!Somewhere else to find me: The Trojan BioBusiness Group (I'm the founder and we're always looking for new members!), Cathartic, Apollo Chorus, AcceptED, USC Regulatory Science Research Team, the Chipotle on Figueroa, and El Huero's at midnight.My LinkedIn
Co-Director of Student Success & Equity:
Nuha Lakhani
she/her
Hi I'm Nuha!I'm currently a sophomore majoring in Computer Science and Business Administration. I am a proud Houstonian and had actually never visited California prior to being admitted to USC. Some things I love doing are going on long walks around campus, experimenting with new recipes, and doing touristy things around the city!Fun Facts About Me: I'm obsessed with Sabrina Carpenter and Dominic Fike (their concerts were life-changing), know the entire soundtrack to Lemonade Mouth and Let it Shine by heart, and am constantly resisting the urge to spend copious amounts of money on matcha and boba.Ask me about: On-campus jobs, financial aid, saving/investing, being an out-of-sate student, and what TV show you should binge-watch next!Somewhere else to find me: Science Outreach, Society of Women Engineers (SWE), or in the gigantic line at Dulce.My LinkedIn
Co-Director of Student Success & Equity:
Emily Amador
she/her/ella
Hi I'm Emily!Hey everyone! My name is Emily Amador and I am from South Central LA. I am a first year studying Law, History, and Culture and am in Thematic Option! I have developed a deep passion for learning as it has been freeing for me and I also really value the insight I learn from others! My experience as a first-generation Mexican-American from a poverty-stricken community has personalized my commitment to advocacy.Fun Facts About Me: I am the middle child of 7, I love writing and public speaking, and I specifically enjoy writing poetry and am working on publishing a book! I LOVE music - LOVE LOVE Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, 2Pac, Chalino Sanchez, ALL THAT ❤️🔥Ask me about: Navigating higher education while being financially limited, homesickness, microaggressions, how to be more active in the Congressional sector of migrant and immigration policies, accessibility for undocumented communities, the imposter phenomenon, networking, and scholarship searches.Somewhere else to find me: Latino Students in Law, IDEAS, Hermanas Unidas, Daily Trojan (Features writer), and Latino Business Student AssociationMy LinkedIn
The Programming Team!
come to us for all things event planning - ask us questions, give us suggestions, and let us know what you liked/hated!
Programming Chair:
Mel Ayala
she/her
Hi I'm Mel!
I'm currently a senior at USC, where I'm studying Public Policy and pursuing a Masters Degree in Public Administration. I am passionate about public service, which was ignited during my upbringing in the small town of Tolleson, Arizona. Being actively involved in my local community shaped my desire to continue making a positive impact through my studies. I'm also a proud Salvadoran-American! ❤️🧸Fun Facts About Me: I was vegan for two years, and although I'm now a pescatarian, I love exploring different restaurants in LA with friends. I love watching films, and you can check out my Letterboxd account @saintspablo for some of my faves. One of the most incredible experiences I had was meeting Kamala Harris, thanks to my involvement at USC! It's a testament to the opportunities and connections you can find here.Ask me about: My insights and experiences, whether it's about being a part of the Latine community at USC, navigating life as an out-of-state student, progressive degree programs, financial aid, getting involved on campus, finding the right balance between school and social life, relationships, working while in school, fitness and health, or being a child of immigrants. You can ask me anything!Somewhere else to find me: When I'm not in class, you can usually find me at the USG office or at the Price School.My LinkedIn
Director of Professionalism:
Quinnie Nguyen
she/her
Hi I'm Quinnie!I'm a fourth year pre-law student majoring in Political Science and minoring in Legal Studies. I was born in Vietnam, but spent the better part of my childhood in Lawrenceville, Georgia before moving to San Jose, CA a few years ago! My favorite color is green and I love exploring wherever the LA Metro can take me!Fun Facts About Me: I once met Shaq at a beauty supply store (and I have the picture to prove it), and I'm a Libra Sun/Rising and Leo Moon! I also love country music (and I firmly believe country music haters are just listening to the wrong kind of country).Ask me about: Resume/Cover Letters, Applying to Internships, Acing Interviews, Networking & Emailing, Financial Education, the low-income experience, community service event planning, writing for the Daily Trojan, and organizational tips!Somewhere else to find me: Agents of Change, Fisher Fellows, Daily Trojan newsroom, Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, at the Central Arraignment court, or in the CPA library!My LinkedIn
Director of Student Life:
Somi Awasthi
she/her
Hi I'm Somi!I am a junior majoring in Media Arts and Practice! I am from rural Connecticut (east coast!) and love being surrounded by nature. I also love watching movies and painting aliens (science fiction is my love language).Fun Facts About Me: I always carry two Pokémon cards on me, I am always prepared for an impromptu Pokémon battle! I have a high score of 1 million on Subway Surfers.Ask me about: The transfer experience, intersectionality at USC, finding mentors, networking tips, finding internships, imposter syndrome.Somewhere else to find me: Girls in Games!My LinkedIn
The Communications Team!
come to us if you want to get in touch - we handle all of the communication between you, us, and USC!
Communications Chair:
Shriya Patel
she/her
Hi I'm Shriya!I'm a 4th year student with a major in Aerospace Engineering and a minor in Astronomy! I was raised right outside Austin, TX, so you know I know how to find a good taco place. My favorite color is yellow, I absolutely love to cook (& eat!), go to as many concerts as possible (for my wallet and schedule), I listen to music religiously, and I'm currently teaching myself to embroider and to perfect my garlic naan recipe.Fun Facts About Me: I created a social justice website that is linked in our resources (you should definitely check in out)! I have four tattoos (so far), and I was born in March, so apparently that makes me a Pisces but I'm not really sure what that means (I'm a different type of star girl), and my uncle is an accredited songwriter for people like Usher, Katy Perry, and One Direction!Ask me about: Music recommendations/Playlists, STEM Engagement, Viterbi, K-12 STEM Center, Choosing a Minor, Applying to Internships, Cooking/Dinner Ideas, Organization and Planning, Resume Writing/Building, Financial Independence, Campus Jobs, if you just need a new group of people to study with, or a fresh batch of homemade muffins!Somewhere else to find me: the AeroDesign Team Lab! I'm the crew chief and lab manager, so come on in and join me for my lab hours - ADT is open to everyone of all years and majors. We're building a plane!!My LinkedIn
Director of Graphic Design:
Iris Zheng
she/her
Hi I'm Iris!Hi All! I’m a sophomore majoring in Cognitive Science minoring in Legal Studies and Computer Programming! I grew up in the Bay Area, so I’m excited to explore LA more in my time here! I love reading (ask me for recs), crocheting, and listening to podcasts.Fun Facts About Me: I was a classically trained pianist for 10 years of my life, I’m a Leo and a Libra rising according to my best friend (if that helps anyone), and I got a tattoo in the trunk of my car.Ask me about: the transfer experience, coming from an immigrant family, any book recommendations, and managing my time.Somewhere else to find me: At archery practice (join USC’s club archery team!), library hopping around campus, or working as a Dornsife transfer ambassador!My LinkedIn
Director of Student Affairs:
Lena Palomares
she/her
Hi I'm Lena!I am a rising sophomore majoring in Public Relations and Advertising at USC on the pre-law track. I was born and raised as an out-of-state student in a small mountain town in Colorado! I chose USC because I wanted to experience the big city and enjoy the warm weather.Fun Facts About Me: I have been a vegetarian since I was ten years old! I am the BIGGEST Swiftie ever and attended the Eras tour! I have two black and white cats! Lastly, I love the outdoors, especially the river!Ask me about: Being an Out-of-State Student, Imposter Syndrome, the Latinx Experience, the Low-income Experience, the Child of Immigrants Experience, Financial Aid, Switching Majors, and Scholarships!Somewhere else to find me: Latino Students in Law, Political Student Assembly, VoteSC, Trojan Democrats, Political Union, and Women and PoliticsMy LinkedIn
Director of Outreach:
Serena Yang
she/her
Hi I'm Serena!I am a sophomore double majoring in Applied Math and Data Science with minors in Dance and Computer Programming. I am a Southern California native hailing from Rowland Heights, a small town east of Los Angeles that is rich with Asian influence. I enjoy curling up at home eating soondubu and rewatching old Youtube videos.Fun Facts About Me: I am Taiwanese American, proud to say that boba was created in Taiwan! I do some brand deals here and there on my social media. I love watching sports!Ask me about: Imposter Syndrome, Building a resume, Being an Orientation Leader, Interdisciplinary studies, Time management, Best boba spots in 626 area!Somewhere else to find me: Shift SC, Scope USC, Chinese American Student Association, Society of Women Engineers, every football game at the Coliseum!My LinkedIn
The Financial Team!
come to us for all things budgetary!
Financial Chair:
Farrah Diogene
she/her
Hi I'm Farrah!I’m a 3rd year student studying Psychology! My favorite colors are yellow, teal, and any of shade of purple. I love traveling, biking, reading, and writing and my favorite shows are Avatar the Last Airbender and the Legend of Korra. I’m from Florida and love the rain.Fun Facts About Me: I’m an Aquarius Sun and Gemini Moon/Rising so triple air signs!! I throw up a peace sign whenever I’m taking a pic. I also love to play Assassin's Creed when I want to lift my mood.Ask me about: Applying for scholarships, the low-income experience, being homesick, adjusting to college life, and decorating your dorm on a budget!Somewhere else to find me: Black Student Assembly, Black Psychology Student Association, Women in Cinema, or lying down in Founders Park.My LinkedIn
Director of Philanthropy:
George Varela
he/him
Hi I'm George!I am a super senior majoring in International Relations and the Global Economy. I’m currently in investment banking doing sell-side M&A and capital raising. My academic interests lie in political economy (or IPE) and data science (python and statistics). I am from the Westlake/K-town area here in Los Angeles and grew up on LAUSD coffee cake.Fun Facts About Me: I’m an Aquarius (not the January poser ones), I like to box (I’m dead tired after 2 rounds), and am a single father (I own a cat).Ask me about: Finance, Baby Keem, Country/Political Risk, Gentrification, and being from a low-income background. I’m more than open to questions about resume building, professional development, and networking. Please feel free to reach out if you are a student from an inner-city area and want to learn more about navigating or finding a student community here at USC!Somewhere else to find me: FG+SC, the USC Village Gym, House and Techno at USC, and Dulce.My LinkedIn
First Gen 2 First Gen
support your fellow first gen students from usc, surrounding communities, and in the adult job world! the only way to rise is to build each other up, so take some time to celebrate an support the things that everyone is accomplishing!Fill out the form below if you have something you'd like to share in this section!
FGSA Memories!
our version of a fgsa scrapbook with memories from all of our events! have any to submit? fill out the form below:
Get In Touch and Get Involved!
questions, comments, or concerns? your fgsu executive board is here for you, so don't hesitate to reach out! we're still a work in progress, so bear with us!