I was interviewing a President Donald Trump supporter for a story when he asked me a question. “Are you a (U.S.) citizen?” he asked. “I have a green card,” I answered. Read more...

Photo: (Michael Zshornack/Photo editor)

I am graduating from UCLA more confused than when I came in. College was supposed to teach me the theories of economics, prepare me for a career in money-making and transform me into a mature, well-functioning adult. Read more...

Photo: (Michael Zshornack/Photo editor)

People don’t usually listen to me. Most of the time, when I’m in a group – be it working on a project or hanging out with friends – my words get lost in the crowd. Read more...

Photo: (Michael Zshornack/Photo editor)

I had a lot of growing up to do when I first got to UCLA. I came from the smallest high school in a small city. Read more...

Photo: (Michael Zshornack/Photo editor)

On Monday night of week seven, I stumbled upon a Facebook post sharing an article titled “Data, teachers’ allegations undermine Gompers’ college-ready promise.” Gompers Preparatory Academy was the high school I graduated from. Read more...

Photo: (Michael Zshornack/Photo editor)

I was in my first college discussion section. Italian history. The syllabus encouraged class participation to earn the highest grade. Our TA kicked off the section by asking about our thoughts on the reading. Read more...

Photo: (Michael Zshornack/Photo editor)

I spent most of my formative years thinking of openers for my college admissions essays. I had this distaste for those who sought to build Ivy League reputations that was ironic, really, given that I was preoccupied with college in my own right. Read more...

Photo: (Michael Zshornack/Photo editor)