Briana Rodriguez

My name is Briana Rodriguez. I’m a Xicana, born in Jalisco, Mexico and raised in the East Bay. I’m the oldest of three. I’m a proud first-generation EOP college student. I’m double majoring in chicano and latino studies and psychology with a minor in spanish. While navigating higher education, I have found others who share similar experiences and background as me, which empowers me to succeed and advocate for first generation students and marginalized communities.

My involvement here on campus has been to help other students transition into Sonoma State and help them advocate for themselves. I have a big connection with my EOP community. I’ve had the opportunity to be a Summer Bridge Leader, EOP Peer Mentor, and AMCS Peer Mentor. I’m also a student intern for California Faculty Association (CFA). Through CFA, I have a chance to organize a student advocate group called Students for Quality Education that advocates for equal, accessible, and quality education for all students. Through that organization, I was able to organize Sonoma State’s first Undocu5k: Educación sin Fronteras. This event has helped provide scholarships for undocumented students in our community.

As a first-generation college student, social justice activist, and Xicana, I have encountered the challenges of trying to validate my experience and looking for ways to balance school, work, and family. My experience here at Sonoma State has been motivational. I have been exposed to new challenges and I’m working on becoming a better self-advocate.