UC Merced Student Tour Guides
Connect with a student tour guide to learn more about UC Merced!
Student Tour Guide Leadership Team
Student Tour Guide, Team Captain
Raul Ramirez-Reyes
He / His / Him
Hometown: Oakland, CA
High school / Community College: San Lorenzo High School / Merced College
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Hello everyone! I’m Raul Ramirez, and I’m a fourth year majoring in Mechanical Engineering. I transferred here from Merced College and grew up in Oakland, California. On campus, I’m actively involved with Omega Delta Phi Fraternity, Inc., where I currently hold the position of Vice President. I chose UC Merced for its strong community, valuable resources, and the financial support that aids me in achieving my future goals. I can’t wait to be your tour guide and hope to see you on campus soon!
Student Tour Guide Lead, Development Chair
Katelin Cortez
She / Her / Her
Hometown: Corcoran, CA
High school: Corcoran High School
Major: Political Science & Sociology
Hi! I’m Katelin Cortez, a senior double majoring in Political Science and Sociology. I’m from Corcoran, CA, and graduated from Corcoran High School. On campus, I’m involved in two clubs: I serve as the Marketing Chair for the Campus Activities Board (CAB) and am also a member of the Merced Pre-Law Society. I chose UC Merced because it felt like home to me. Although we may be the smallest UC, being part of this close-knit community has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I’ve had the chance to grow alongside this campus, form meaningful friendships, and expand my network in ways I never imagined. UC Merced truly feels like my home away from home.
Student Tour Guide Lead, Social Media and Engagement Chair
Kayla McCoy
She / Her
Hometown: Paradise, CA
High school: COREButte Charter High School
Major: Civil Engineering
Minor: Political Science
Hi and welcome to UC Merced! I’m Kayla, one of your tour guide leads. I’m a third-year majoring in Civil Engineering with a minor in Political Science. I come from a small town called Paradise, CA, which is about four hours north of here. I’m actively involved on campus and hold leadership roles in the Delta Gamma Social Sorority, the Society of Women Engineers, the Yosemite Leadership Program, and Model UN. I chose UC Merced because I’m interested in pursuing research after my bachelor’s degree, and UC Merced offers excellent opportunities for students to engage in research labs!
Student Tour Guide Lead, Logistic Chair
Jasmine Junior
She / Her / Hers
Hometown: Redlands, CA
High school: Redlands High School
Major: Management and Business Economics
Hi, I’m Jasmine! I’m a third-year majoring in Management and Business Economics. I hail from a small town in the Inland Empire called Redlands, where I graduated from Redlands High School. Here at UC Merced, I’m part of a social sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma. I chose this university to embrace a life beyond the city and to connect more with nature.
Student Tour Guide Lead, Recruitment & Training Chair
Miguel Cruz
He / Him
Hometown: Santa Ana, CA
High school: Middle College High School
Major: Civil Engineering
Hello everyone! My name is Miguel, and I’m a third-year Civil Engineering student at UC Merced. I graduated from Middle College High School in Santa Ana, California. On campus, I’m involved with the Civil Engineering Student Association as the Outreach and Recruitment Chair, as well as with SHPE, the Society for Hispanic Professional Engineers. I chose UC Merced because I wanted to experience living independently and to be part of something bigger. Through my involvement, I hope to help develop our chapter into a national organization in the near future.
Student Tour Guide Team
Adelina Murillo
She / Her / Ella
Hometown: Montebello, CA
High school: Math, Science, and Technology Magnet Academy at Roosevelt High School
Major: Sociology
Minor: NSED
Hello! I’m Adelina Murillo, a fourth-year student at UC Merced, originally from Montebello, California. I’m majoring in Sociology with a minor in the Natural Science Education Program (NSED). With the help of my minor, I aspire to become an elementary school teacher and make a positive impact on future generations. In my free time, I love spending time with friends, fishing, watching Disney movies, crocheting, or simply taking naps. On campus, I’m also involved with Hermanas Unidas, a student-run club, and I’m part of the SATAL research team, working to enhance the quality of education at UC Merced. Overall, choosing Merced has been a wonderful decision for me, as the strong sense of community has helped me feel at home and connect with some amazing people. I’m excited to share my experiences with you as your tour guide!
Bethany Moody
She / Her / Hers
Hometown: Fresno, CA
High school: Central East High School
Major: Psychology
Hi! I’m Bethany Moody, a third-year Psychology major from Fresno, California. I chose UC Merced not only for its proximity to home but also for its welcoming atmosphere, tight-knit community, and excellent research opportunities. In my free time, you can find me studying in the library, taking walks around campus, or participating in events in Downtown Merced! After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school and pursue a career in Behavior Analysis.
Calvin Kaneshiro
He / Him
Hometown: San Jose, CA
High school: Yerba Buena High School
Major: Psychology
Hi! I’m Calvin Kaneshiro, a second-year Psychology major from San Jose, CA. On campus, I serve as the Intercollegiate Council member for the Vietnamese Student Association. I chose UC Merced because I appreciate the vibrant community and diversity here. I look forward to seeing everyone at UC Merced!
CJ Oderinde
He / Him
Hometown: Dublin, CA
High school: Berean Christian High School
Major: Psychology
Hi! I’m CJ Oderinde, a third-year psychology major on a pre-med track. I’m originally from Dublin in the Bay Area. I’m passionate about sports—whether playing, watching, or just chatting about them! On campus, I serve as a senator for the School of SSHA through ASUCM and I’m also the president of a pre-med club called Diversified Doctors. In addition to being a tour guide, I work as an athletic training student assistant. A fun fact about me: I’m a Certified EMT! I chose UC Merced for the diverse opportunities it provides to all students, no matter their background.
Clarissa Gomez
She / Her / Hers
Hometown: San Jose, CA
High school: Presentation High School
Major: Human Biology
Minor: Spanish
Hello! I’m Clarissa Gomez, and I’m majoring in Human Biology with a minor in Spanish. I graduated from Presentation High School in San Jose, CA. I chose UC Merced for its diversity and the many opportunities available, as well as the excellent Biology program. I’m excited to share my enthusiasm and passion for UC Merced with you. See you soon!
Daniel Le
He / Him
Hometown: San Jose, CA
High school: KIPP San Jose Collegiate
Major: Mechanical Engineering
My name is Daniel Le, and I’m a fourth-year majoring in Mechanical Engineering. I’m originally from San Jose, CA, and I graduated from KIPP San Jose Collegiate. On campus, I’m active in the Vietnamese Student Association (VSA) and enjoy playing in the intramural Volleyball and Ultimate Frisbee programs. I chose UC Merced for its proximity to home and the financial aid it offered. I also appreciate that it’s a newer campus and its close proximity to Yosemite National Park.
Desiree Baltazar
She / Her / Hers
Hometown: Los Ángeles, CA
High school: Ánimo Jackie Robinson High School
Major: Psychology
Minor: Sociology
Hello everyone!!! My name is Desiree Baltazar. I am currently a Senior majoring in psychology and minoring in sociology. I am from Los Angeles, California. My hobbies are painting, doing makeup, and hanging out with friends. As for my involvement on campus I am in a sorority called Phi Mu and a club called Hermanas Unidas. The reason why I chose Merced is because of the diversity within the campus and the amount of opportunities as being a first generation student.
Diana Cervantes
She / Her / Ella
Hometown: Livingston, CA
High school: Livingston High School
Major: Biological Sciences - Human Biology
My name is Diana Cervantes, and I’m a second-year student majoring in Biological Sciences with an emphasis on Human Biology. I’m from Livingston, CA where I attended Livingston High School. On campus, I’m involved with the Isight Club and Vida Volunteer. I chose UC Merced for its abundant resources and the chance to be part of its growing community. I look forward to showing you everything I enjoy about UC Merced!
Emely Villalba Macedo
She / Her
Hometown: San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, CA
High school: John H. Francis Polytechnic High School
Major: Political Science
Minor: Economics
Hello! I’m Emely Villalba Macedo, a second year majoring in Political Science with a minor in Economics. I hail from the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, where I graduated from John H. Francis Polytechnic High School. Currently, I serve as the Treasurer for Phi Alpha Delta, a Pre-Law Fraternity on campus. I chose UC Merced because I wanted a school that would push me beyond my comfort zone and challenge me academically. This university has provided me with the opportunity to grow and connect with amazing people who have introduced me to new interests. I’m looking forward to welcoming you all to our beautiful campus!
Ethan Chang
He / Him
Hometown: Chino Hills
High school: Troy High School
Major: Computer Science and Engineering
Hi! My name is Ethan Chang and I am a second year computer science and engineering major from Chino Hills, California. I am involved in the Vietnamese Student Association and currently serve as the 2024-2025 treasurer. I enjoy spending time with my friends and also playing online games. I chose UC Merced because the peaceful environment and overall smaller classroom sizes. I hope you enjoy the campus!
Isabella Fuentes-Yip
She / Her / Ella
Hometown: Livingston, CA
High school: Livingston High School
Major: Chemistry
Minor: Psychology
Hi everyone! I’m Isabella Fuentes, a fourth-year Chemistry major with a minor in Psychology at UC Merced. I’m from Livingston, CA, just 30 minutes from campus! Outside of academics, I train in karate and am currently a third-degree black belt. I also enjoy reading, watching Netflix and Hulu, and spending time with family and friends. I chose to continue my studies at UC Merced because of its close proximity to home and the abundance of resources available.
Janelle Garcia
She / Her
Hometown: Rialto, CA
High school: Eisenhower High School
Major: Biology
Minor: Natural Sciences Education
Hi, I’m Janelle Garcia. I’m a second year majoring in Biology with a minor in Natural Science Education and working towards a teaching credential. I’m originally from Rialto, CA, but I grew up in the Los Angeles, California area and attended Eisenhower High School. I’m involved in a club called Hermanas Unidas on campus. I chose UC Merced because its supportive environment feels like home, with plenty of resources and staff who helped me navigate my first year of college.
Jennah Zambrano
She / Her
Hometown: Manteca, CA
High school: Manteca High School
Major: Pre-Med Psychology
Hi! I’m Jennah Zambrano, a senior majoring in Psychology on a pre-med track. I’m from Manteca, CA, and I graduated from Manteca High School. Before becoming a Student Tour Guide, I worked as a Resident Assistant and served as the director of outreach for the Helping Hands club. For the past two years, I’ve also been the social media director. I chose UC Merced because it’s close to home and offers great financial aid. I can’t wait for your visit!
Jessie Delgado
He / Him
Hometown: Merced, CA
High school / Community College: El Capitan High School / Santa Monica College
Major: Psychology
Minor: Public Health
Hi! I’m Jessie Delgado, a senior majoring in Psychology and Public Health. I graduated from El Capitan High School here in Merced. I’m involved in Phi Alpha Delta, a pre-law fraternity, and I coordinate for the FundTheUC campaign. I’m also a member of the UC Merced cheer team. I chose UC Merced to stay close to home and to take advantage of the incredible opportunities here. In my time at UC Merced, I’ve accomplished so much, and I truly feel I’m on the path to achieving my dream career!
Michaell Guerra
He / Him
Hometown: Van Nuys, CA
High school: Birmingham Community Charter High School
Major: Civil Engineering
Hi! I’m Michaell Guerra, a third-year majoring in Civil Engineering. I graduated from Birmingham Community Charter High School. I chose UC Merced because it’s far enough to help me embrace independence and start building my own life. I can’t wait to share all the things I love about UC Merced with you, and I’m excited to be your next tour guide!
Miles Moreau
He / Him
Hometown: La Palma
High school: Gahr High School
Major: Political Science
Hello! My name is Miles Moreau and I am a 1st year majoring in Political Science. I come from the LA area, more specifically Orange County. On campus, I have involved in Competitive Archery, President of Middle Ground Club, Leadership & Service LLC, and currently an intern for an Assemblyman. I enjoy hanging out with my friends, my club officers, and love taking late night walks around campus. I chose UC Merced because of the vast opportunity and internships that school had open to students. Since the school has these options for students, I was able to be apart of a political internship my first semester and network for the future.
Nicky Lor
He / Him
Hometown: Merced, CA
High school: El Capitan High School
Major: History
Minor: NSED
Hello! I’m Nicky Lor, and I’m a fourth-year student at UC Merced, majoring in History with a minor in Natural Science Education. I aim to become a history teacher. Fun fact, I’ve lived in Merced my whole life. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with friends and playing video games. I’m also involved with the Hmong Student Association (HSA), a cultural club that celebrates Hmong heritage. I chose UC Merced for its wealth of opportunities and welcoming community. I’m looking forward to seeing all of you here!
Rebecca Rodriguez
She / Her
Hometown: Inglewood, CA
High school: Hawthorne High School
Major: Psychology
Hi there! I’m Rebecca Rodriguez, a fourth-year student majoring in Psychology. I grew up in Inglewood, CA, and attended Hawthorne High School. I chose UC Merced because I wanted a change from the hustle and bustle of the city, and I felt Merced was the ideal place for personal growth and self-discovery. On campus, I’m part of the dance team, engage in various volunteer activities, and even started my own run club called Runners Unite, where I support fellow students in training for marathons.
Rubi Chaidez
She / Her
Hometown: Compton, CA
High school: Dominguez High School
Major: Political Science
Hi everyone! I’m Rubi, a second-year Political Science major from Compton, California. I enjoy reading and spending time with friends and family. On campus, I’m involved with a non-profit organization called Hermanas Unidas (HaU), where I serve as the Public Relations Chair. I chose UC Merced because of its welcoming community and the many opportunities available to us as students.
Timothy Le
He / Him
Hometown: Elk Grove, CA
High school: Sheldon High School
Major: Bioengineering - Bioinstrumentation
Hi! My name is Timothy Le and I’m a Junior Bioengineering major with an emphasis in Bioinstrumentation. I’m from Elk Grove, CA which is about 2 hours from Merced. Some of my campus involvements are that I’m an active member in the Vietnamese Student Association where I am also the co-founder and coordinator of the lion dance team. I decided to choose UC Merced because it wasn’t too far from home, and it’s strong financial aid, as well as it feeling like a very welcoming community with lots of opportunities. I look forward to seeing you on our campus soon!
Tyler Roman
He / Him / His
Hometown: Lodi, CA
High school: Lodi High School
Major: Computer Science and Engineering
Hi! I’m Tyler Roman, a junior majoring in Computer Science and Engineering. I’m from Lodi, CA, and graduated from Lodi High School. On campus, I’m involved in Greek Life as the chairman of Sigma Chi International Fraternity, and I also participate in NSU, MercedInMotion, and AccelerateU Clubs. I chose UC Merced seeking a fresh start, and my first impressions of the campus truly captivated me. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed by the many people and tour guides, which gave me a sense of home. I was excited to see the opportunities for involvement and the friendly atmosphere. Plus, UC Merced's growing community is exactly the environment I wanted to be part of. I knew right away that this was the perfect fit for me. I look forward to being your tour guide soon!
Viviann Coronado
Hometown: Logan Heights, San Diego, CA
High school: San Diego High School
Major: Global Arts Studies and Performance (GASP)
Hello! I’m Viviann Coronado, and I’m in the Global Arts Studies program. I’m from Logan Heights, CA, and I graduated from San Diego High School. On campus, I’m involved with the Young Artist Movement. I chose UC Merced because the beautiful campus, with its proximity to a national park, really captured my interest, and the surrounding community made me feel at home. I’m excited to be your tour guide!
Winston Pham
He / Him
Hometown: Torrance, CA
High school: West Torrance High School
Major: Management and Business Economics
Hello! My name is Winston Pham, and I’m a Junior majoring in Management and Business Economics. I’m from Torrance and graduated from Torrance High School. On campus, I’m involved with the Vietnamese Student Association. I chose UC Merced because I wanted to explore a new city and experience an area I hadn’t visited before. The programs here align perfectly with my career goals after college. Additionally, visiting the campus and seeing the peaceful surroundings had a significant influence on my decision to come to UC Merced.
Yesenia Perez
She / They
Hometown: Ontario, CA
High school: Ontario High School
Major: Biological Sciences - Human Biology
Hello! I’m Yesenia Perez, a sophomore majoring in Human Biology. I grew up in Ontario, CA, and attended Ontario High School. In addition to being a Student Tour Guide, I’m involved with the Campus Activities Board and College Corps. I chose UC Merced because, from the moment I first visited during Spotlight at UC Merced, everything felt right. I had the chance to understand my financial aid package with an advisor, talk to ambassadors about campus life, and explore the many opportunities available for biology students. I can’t wait to be your tour guide during your visit to UC Merced!
