Michelle Pena
UCLA, Psychobiology
Hello my name is Michelle Pena! I came to the U.S during my last year of high school at the time of college applications. Unfortunately, my options were limited since I was not as prepared as other students (for example taken AP and IB classes). They had prepared for four-years to attend the college of their dreams and I wanted to have that option as well. Therefore, I decided to enroll at College of San Mateo with high hopes and with a new start for my educational path. Coming to CSM has been the correct choice because it has allowed me to find a major I love (I changed my major three times). In addition to helping me getting out of my comfort zone by participating in activities I am not normally use to. I had the opportunity to be part of great groups and clubs such as the Transfer Club, a tutor, the Honors Project, and be Mental Health Peer Educator. I would say participating in extracurricular activities and meeting people played a big role in my success at CSM. My recommendation for prospective students is to seek the opportunities CSM offers because the opportunities are out there but it is vital for us as students to ask and investigate those resources. I will be transferring to UCLA as a Psychobiology major. My plans after graduating from college are to attend and graduate from medical school to one day become a great doctor! Once again, I am content with my decision of attending College Of San Mateo.