Get to know the seniors on our staff and join us in our bittersweet goodbyes!
Angela Vargas
Major: Sociology major and Labor Studies minor Hometown: South Gate, CA Farewell Message: “I wasn't entirely aware of the impact La Gente would have on me when I first joined as a college freshman. These last four years have brought me beautiful friendships, comfort, encouragement, and inspiration. I will forever be grateful for our tiny office and the endless amount of love and talent that lives in those four walls. I can't wait to see what future gentistas will do with the space and will forever be rooting for this staff.”
Andrew Valdovinos
Major: American Literature and Culture Hometown: South Central LA, CA Farewell Message: “Emotional negligence carries a profound impact on our perception of life, nurture feelings more than people for a connection based in longevity. “
Claudia Ledesma Rodriguez
Major: English Hometown: Tijuana, B.C Farewell Message: “I want to give thanks to La Gente for giving me the opportunity to be part of this amazing community. To my editors who helped me grow and gave me their support along the way and to all the lovely staff, writers, and content creators. Without each and every one of them, La Gente Newsmagazine would not be what it is today. Thank you for making my last transfer year an awesome experience!”
Ashley Huendo
Majors: History & Digital Humanities Hometown: Long Beach, CA Farewell Message: “During my four years with La Gente, I had the honor of being part of an amazing organization filled with amazing people. As a kid fresh out of high school, I had no idea that choosing to intern at La Gente would lead to developing more confidence in my abilities. I'm excited for the future of La Gente and I look forward to seeing all of the great work.”
Jessica Jimenez
Major: Sociology and Chicana/o and Central American Studies minor Hometown: San Fernando Valley, CA Farewell Message: “I am so thankful to have been a part of La Gente. I have gotten to meet so many people and tap into different levels of my creativity I did not know were possible. Being a part of La Gente has given me a sense of community and I will forever cherish the memories I have made.”
Rebecca Gutierrez
Rebecca Gutierrez Major: English major and Labor Studies minor Hometown: Highland Park, CA Farewell Message: “Meeting in Kerckhoff, was a highlight of my week. I love La Gente and I am forever grateful for the memories and people I met throughout my undergrad<3”
Nayeli Velarde
Major: Political Science and Chicana/o and Central American Studies minor Hometown: San Ysidro/Tijuana, B.C Farewell Message: “don't ever try to break in dr martens by going up the hill #ouch”
Melissa Gonzalez
Major: American Literature and Culture and Chicana/o and Central American Studies minor Hometown: Chino, CA Farewell Message: “I am so glad that I was a part of La Gente during my final year at UCLA. My favorite part was meeting new people, getting to read amazing work before they were published, and getting to see everyone creatively work together to make meaningful content. I highly encourage joining the team, it made my senior so much more rewarding.”
Melissa Díaz
Major: Political Science with a concentration in Race, Ethnicity, and Politics. Minors in Global Studies, Gender Studies, and Musicology Hometown: Los Angeles, CA Farewell Message: “I sought to join La Gente looking for a creative community with individuals who had a similar background and identity to mine. I found that, and much more. I am so grateful to have been part of this great organization throughout my college career, and to have witnessed the growth La Gente has undergone. The welcoming environment, and creative, passionate community is something I will hold near and dear to my heart. Thank you. “
Lesley Ramirez
Major: English major and Labor Studies minor Hometown: Culver City, CA Farewell Message: “It's been fun working with all of the colorful, spirited and bright people of La Gente! Good luck everyone!”
