Hey everyone,  

My name is Violeta, I am here to share a bit about my journey navigating the financial aspects of college life at UCLA. As a second-year Psychology major with a minor in Gender Studies, my time at UCLA has been a cycle of experiences, challenges, and growth. But despite all the excitement, one thing that always roamed large in my mind was the question of affordability.  

Being a first-generation college student, the fear of not being able to afford college was a constant presence for me and my family. The whole process of understanding financial aid seemed scary at first, but thankfully, UCLA offers an enormous amount of resources and support to help students like me navigate this obstacle.  

During my freshman year, I went right into exploring all the opportunities and resources available on campus. With a diverse amount of clubs and organizations to choose from, I found spaces where fellow students, just like me, were grappling with the same questions about college affordability. Groups like Hermana Unidas, a Latina-oriented club offering academic and community support, became my go-to for advice and support. It was comforting to realize that I wasn’t alone in this journey and having peers who shared their experiences helped alleviate some of my concerns.  

However, one of the biggest challenges I faced was understanding how my financial aid package worked and whether there were any out-of-pocket costs. While I had to figure out a lot on my own, organizations like Hermana Unidas played a crucial role in helping me navigate UCLA’s system and discover the resources available to me. Given my family’s circumstances, I knew I needed a job to support myself financially, which led me to explore work-study opportunities on campus.  

Securing a job through work-study not only provided me with valuable work experience but also ensured that I could earn money without worrying about taxes eating into my paycheck. Plus, the flexibility of on-campus jobs allowed me to balance my work schedule around my classes, prioritizing my studies while still being able to work.  

Beyond work-study, I discovered a lot of resources aimed at supporting students’ financial well-being. Whether it’s the Community Programs Office (CPO) offering free snacks and meals or wellness centers providing aid assistance for groceries, UCLA goes above and beyond to ensure that students have access to the support they need. Looking back on my journey so far, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of financial aid in making higher education accessible and achievable.  

While the road may seem scary at first, know that you’re not alone. My experience working at the financial aid office through work-study provided me with invaluable insight into the behind-the-scenes operations of financial aid. I gained a deep understanding of the various financial aid awards, scholarships, and loans available to students, as well as the extensive training and expertise required of staff to provide the best support to all students. It was eye-opening to witness the amount of resources and dedication staff placed to ensure that every student receives the best possible support.  

Asking questions is key, especially when navigating the complexities of college finances. It’s essential to remember that you’re not alone in facing these challenges. UCLA provides support in various forms, whether it’s through clubs and organizations like Hermana Unidas, the financial aid office, or other campus resources. The important thing is to remain open to seeking help and taking advantage of the support available. Together, we can overcome obstacles and make the most of our college experience.  

Congrats Future Bruins!