[by: Elisa Kim]
Through all of this, I’ve found that community really does shape your sense of belonging. The people I’ve met here have become my closest friends. Being surrounded by other creatives who support and motivate each other has made me feel seen—and has made me want to give back just as much.
Starting college as a first-generation student was exciting—I came in knowing I wanted to do anything and everything I could that this university had to offer. And I did ! One of the most defining parts of my college journey was joining Triton Television (TTV). It was the first place I felt fully supported in pursuing creative work. I learned how to use professional equipment, produce my own films, and collaborate with other students who were just as passionate. That experience gave me the tools—and the confidence—to keep pursuing digital storytelling.
I also found ways to merge my love for content creation and trend-spotting into real campus roles. I’ve worked with Sun God Social, University Centers, and A.S. Enterprises, and through these positions, I got to create, strategize, and experiment in ways that mattered. One week I’d be filming a concert on campus, the next I’d be covering a sports game to share on social media. I even got to do spontaneous street interviews for UC San Diego’s social channels—those unexpected interactions became some of my favorite memories. I’m really going to miss that.
Over the past four years, I’ve watched the creative scene at UC San Diego expand in amazing ways. There are more spaces now for artists, creators, and storytellers to thrive—and I’m so proud to have been part of that growth. I even started a club with my friends called Out the Archive—a space where people come together-bringing all types of talent into one big group-making creative passion projects for all to see, whether that’s photos, writing, video, or anything personal. It’s been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience seeing the club grow into a community that I wish I had my first year at UC San Diego.
Through all of this, I’ve found that community really does shape your sense of belonging. The people I’ve met here have become my closest friends. Being surrounded by other creatives who support and motivate each other has made me feel seen—and has made me want to give back just as much.
To anyone trying to find their place: it’s okay if it takes time. Try things out, say yes to opportunities, and don’t be afraid to create your own space if it doesn’t exist yet. Your voice matters.
It’s been a great run, UC San Diego. I cannot believe my time here has come to an end, and I couldn’t be more grateful for how much I’ve grown here—as a student, a creator, and a triton!