Student Ambassador Team
Leadership Team
Leena Sanchez, Team Captain
She / Her
Hello/Hola! My name is Leena Sanchez and I am a Fourth Year Molecular and Cell Biology major hoping to pursue an MD/PhD degree. I come from Turlock CA, so I'm glad I get to call the Central Valley my home! My hobbies are reading, hiking, and walking my dog (Mitochondria). UC Merced has offered me so many opportunities to reach out and build relationships that will help me and my education. Because of this, I am currently involved in a neurobiology research lab on campus! On campus, I am a founding member and president of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. I am also president for PRIME Time pre-medical chapter. I am also a TUSCEB fellow (Training Undergraduates in Stem Cell Engineering and Biology). I look forward to sharing my journey here at UC Merced with everyone!
Calendly Link: Meet with Leena
Daniela Contreras, Public Relations Lead
She / Her
Hello/Hola! My name is Dani Contreras, and I'm a fourth-year student majoring in both Sociology and Psychology. As a first-generation college student from Hollister, CA, I chose UC Merced for its perfect location—not too far from home, yet far enough to experience independence. I'm actively involved on campus, serving as the Vice President of Membership for Kappa Kappa Gamma, a social sorority that has enriched my college experience. In the future, I aspire to work in Higher Education, where I can continue to support and empower students. Outside of academics, I love cooking new recipes, exploring with friends, and spending quality time with my family. As a student ambassador, my goal is to offer guidance, support, and valuable insights to all prospective Bobcats.
Calendly Link: Meet with Daniela
Ambassadors
Transfer Ambassadors
Catalina Lara, Transfer Student Ambassador
She / Her
Lios Enchim Aniavu! (Hello Everyone!) My name is Catalina Lara. I am a member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona and have greeted you in my traditional language. I am a Critical Race and Ethnic Studies major. I was born and raised in Fresno, CA. I transferred from Fresno City College with my Associate's degree in American Indian Studies. I chose UC Merced as my school because of the Native American Opportunity Plan, and it is really close to home for me. Also, the programs and opportunities that UC Merced offers make it an excellent choice to finish my degree. After I get my degree here, I hope to transfer to a graduate school to receive my master's in Education Administration and become a superintendent of a K-12 school district. I hope with these degrees, I can give back to my community and inspire more students to pursue their higher education goals.
Calendly Link: Meet with Catalina
Joshua Gonzales, Transfer Student Ambassador
He / Him
Community College: Los Medanos College
Hello! My name is Joshua Gonzales, and I am a third-year transfer student majoring in Public Health with a minor in Psychology. I'm originally from Pittsburg, California, and I transferred from Los Medanos College, where I earned an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Math and Science. During my time there, I completed the Honors Program and was awarded an Honors medal. Since transferring to UC Merced, I have grown both personally and professionally by building meaningful connections, gaining independence, and exploring career-enhancing opportunities. On campus, I am involved with the Pilipino American Alliance (PAA) and intramural sports. In my free time, I enjoy playing and watching sports, spending time outdoors, and connecting with friends and family. I'm excited to share my transfer experience at UC Merced with you all!
Calendly Link: Meet with Joshua
Ruben Paredes, Transfer Student Ambassador
He / Him
Community College: Ohlone Community College
Hello everyone! My name is Ruben Paredes, and I am a 3rd year majoring in History. I'm from the Bay Area of California, more specifically Fremont, one of the many cities between Oakland and San Jose. I transferred from Ohlone Community College to UC Merced in the Fall semester of 2024, and it's been a wonderful experience! The campus has such a unique charm and the people here are incredibly friendly, and I hope after my time here is complete I can pursue teaching history as a career. My current goal is to assist prospective students in making the process of transitioning into the world of college a little less stressful, hoping to help them in any way I can and guiding them to valuable resources. Outside of these goals, I enjoy playing the ukulele and reading about historical empires.
Calendly Link: Meet with Ruben
Ang Hernandez, Transfer Student Ambassador
She / Her
Community College: Los Angeles Southwest College & Merced College
Hello/Hola! My name is Angela Hernandez and I am a third year Psychology major hoping to pursue a J.D degree. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. As a first-generation student without guidance, it was a struggle to find a good school to attend but UCM was a perfect fit for me. UC Merced offered me endless possibilities to further my education in a peaceful environment. Coming from a busy city life, Merced became my sanctuary. I look forward to sharing my journey and experience with everyone!
Calendly Link: Meet with Ang
Brandon Alvarez, Transfer Student Ambassador
He / Him
Hello, my name is Brandon Alvarez, and I am a third-year Psychology major at UC Merced. As a first-gen chicano student from the Bay Area, I chose UC Merced as a way to escape the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area and fully focus on my studies. Upon graduation, I look forward to getting my masters in social work and then becoming an academic/career counselor at either the high school or community college level. In my freetime I like to spend time outdoors, in the gym, or gaming at home.
Calendly Link: Meet with Brandon
Student Ambassadors
Hayley Jenkins, Student Ambassador
She / Her
Hello, my name is Hayley and I'm a 4th year molecular and cell biology major. I am originally from Palm Springs, California. One of my involvements on campus is being a part of Sigma Theta Psi Multicultural Sorority inc. I chose UC Merced because of the welcoming atmosphere on campus and because of the small class sizes.
Calendly Link: Meet with Hayley
Anj Ward, Student Ambassador
She / Her
Hello! I'm Anjaneesa Ward, a proud member of the Pit River tribe and a fourth-year student at UC Merced, majoring in Management and Business Economics with a minor in Psychology. I'm from Orland, CA, just a short drive from Chico. I chose UC Merced because it feels like home, with its diverse and inclusive community that celebrates different cultures. As a member of the cross-country and track team, I stay active and connected to the campus community. After college, I hope to pursue a career in community outreach for social programs, combining my passion for social impact with my academic background. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, listening to True Crime podcasts like RedHanded, and watching psychological thrillers. UC Merced's vibrant community has given me a strong sense of belonging and made my college experience truly fulfilling.
Calendly Link: Meet with Anj
Mya Starr Tabares, Student Ambassador
They / Them
Hi Everyone! My name is Mya Starr Tabares and I am a proud Pascua Yaqui and Mescalero Apache descendant. I am currently in my third year studying Writing Studies with a minor in Global Arts. I'd like to use it in either Graphic Design or as a children's book author. I hope to use my degree to inspire others to take an interest in the liberal arts. You can usually find me reading my newest book, playing video games, or playing with my two cats (Cleo and Bo). Merced has allowed me to discover myself and be a part of a beautiful community. The opportunities are endless here so I can't wait to see which path you take!
Calendly Link: Meet with Mya
Emanuel Angel, Student Ambassador
He / Him / Él
Hello everyone! ¡Hola! My name is Emanuel Angel, but most people call me Manny. Being a local to Merced, my heart belongs to this small city, the heart of California. That is why I committed to UC Merced! It was a hard choice, but I chose our young campus because as students, we all have the potential to be trailblazers and pioneers in our educational community. In my third year as a bobcat, I study Environmental Humanities, the first program of its kind in the University of California system. Aside from my studies, I am very social! I love hiking and traveling, or going on any kind of adventure with my friends. If you get bored in Merced (which is very common), you should explore Garrapata State Park. The Soberanes Canyon and Rocky Ridge Loop are my fav!
Calendly Link: Meet with Emanuel
Wajiha Abboushi, Student Ambassador
She / Her / Hers
Hello, my name is Wajiha Abboushi. I am a second year Human Biology student, with a minor in Philosophy. As a first generation student, UC Merced has opened up a gateway of possibilities for me. I have learned so much through the resources provided by the school and I am now able to achieve my goals. On campus I am a member of multiple clubs and programs. For fun I really enjoy reading, listening to music, and stargazing.
Calendly Link: Meet with Wajiha
Estefany Vega, Student Ambassador
She / Her
Hello/ Hola My name is Estefany Vega, and I'm a third-year student majoring in psychology with a minor in natural science education. As a first-generation student from Los Angeles, I chose UC Merced to explore new paths and opportunities. I'm proud to be a member of the organization Kappa Delta Chi, where I currently serve as Vice President. Looking ahead, I hope to pursue a career as an elementary school teacher or a couple's therapist. In my free time, I love making new friends, going out, and taking on adventurous activities like hiking. I'm so excited to meet and welcome new Bobcats as we embark on this new chapter together!
Calendly Link: Meet with Estefany
Mercedes San-Nicolas, Student Ambassador
She / Her
Hello everyone/Hola todos! My name is Mercedes San-Nicolas, a first generation 3rd year Critical Race and Ethnic studies major. Minoring in Natural Science Education, I hope to pursue a career in education as an educator and eventually an administrator. I am from Stockton, CA and being from the Central Valley makes being a student here at UC Merced that much more fulfilling! UCM has provided so many opportunities like: The CalTeach program where I was able to complete hands-on fieldwork at a local elementary school and UC Merced's Cheer sports club which has allowed me to continue my passion for performance. In my free time I enjoy reading, dancing, and spending quality time with friends and family. I am so excited for this year of new beginnings!
Calendly Link: Meet with Mercedes
Ethan Clark, Student Ambassador
He / Him
Hello! My name is Ethan Clark, and I'm a second-year Management and Business Economics major from Pasadena, California. I chose UC Merced because of its close-knit community and the incredible personal and academic growth opportunities. The supportive environment has allowed me to form meaningful connections with faculty and peers, helping me explore my passion for business. I'm also a member of Kappa Sigma, where I've developed leadership skills and built strong friendships. I'm excited to continue taking advantage of all the opportunities UC Merced provides and to share my journey with others!
Calendly Link: Meet with Ethan
Jorge Mandujano, Student Ambassador
He / Him
Hey there! My name is Jorge Mandujano. I am a first-year Data Science and Analytics major. My hometown, Patterson CA, is an even smaller Central Valley town than Merced. I have lived in the Valley my entire life and love the culture so UC Merced was the perfect school. Outside of the classroom, I am a member of the UC Merced Cross-Country and Track and Field as well as the Rotaract Club on campus. These groups have helped me connect with the local community by staying active in helping the community and getting to meet lots of new people. In my free time, I like to watch TV shows and play video games.
Calendly Link: Meet with Jorge
Meley Abay, Student Ambassador
She / Her
Hello, my name is Meley Abay. I am a third-year Computer Science and Engineering student at UC Merced, with a strong passion for AI and a goal of breaking into the industry. I am originally from Tigray, Ethiopia, and I moved to Sacramento, California, in 2021. I chose UC Merced because of its new and growing environment, as well as the favorable student-to-professor ratio, which provides countless opportunities to build a legacy and be part of building something new. On campus, I am actively involved in leadership and community building. I serve as the President of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), the Treasurer and a charter member of the Phi Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and the Event/Dance Coordinator for the East African Student Association (EASA). In my free time, I love spending time in nature, going on hikes, and taking care of my plants. I also enjoy music, growing in my faith, traveling, and immersing myself in different cultures.
Calendly Link: Meet with Meley
Jon Merino, Student Ambassador
He / Him
Hello/Hola! My name is Jonathan Merino, and I am a second-year mechanical engineering student originally from the Bay Area. I chose UC Merced for the different opportunities it offers. As it is rapidly growing, I knew there was a place for me to grow and develop myself through things like club involvement and research. My experience with club organizations the Society of Hispanic and Professional Engineers (SHPE) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) have helped me find motivation to pursue a degree in STEM and want to help others along the way. In my free time I enjoy going to the gym and playing soccer.
Calendly Link: Meet with Jon
Kai Rivera Tuitavuki, Student Ambassador
They / Them
Aloha/Hello! My name is Kai Rivera Tuitavuki and I am proud Hawaiian, Tongan, and Chicana person from Stockton California. I chose to go to UC Merced so I could be close to home and for research opportunities in my major Anthropology! I am also actively involved on campus serving on the Leadership Centers Student Advisory Board, as Real Food Challenge's UC Merced's Sustainability Fellow, and as Kappa Kappa Gamma's Admin Director. UC Merced's opportunities are endless and I am so happy I made the choice to commit.
Calendly Link: Meet with Kai
Brisa Rios, Student Ambassador
She / Her
Hey everyone! My name is Brisa Rios. I'm a first generation college student from Los Angeles, majoring in Public Health. I chose UC Merced for its supportive environment and focus on research and community engagement, which has already given me the chance to explore different paths in public health, research, and education. I'm currently working as a research assistant, under a faculty member. Outside of academics, I enjoy reading fantasy fiction, listening to music, and exploring new cities.
Calendly Link: Meet with Brisa
