Gabriel Duarte

My name is Gabriel and I am a first-generation college student. My major is computer science with hopes to become a double major in criminal justice to pursue a future in Computer Forensic Investigation. I am involved with transfer student programs as the director of social media as well as a peer mentor and peer ambassador. I am passionate about making others’ lives easier. I became involved in the Transfer Student Programs because I have been in the position that most transfer students have been in. I was a transfer that had no idea what I was doing or how to make friends. I was overwhelmed. I love to help others overcome those fears of not making friends, being shy, and feeling like they have no one there for them. I also love helping students feel at home, less overwhelmed, and academically sound.

When I first came to SSU, I struggled with making friends and I often felt out of place from the lack of diversity on campus as a Mexican-American. Having transferred from a town where a majority of the population was Hispanic, it took a bit of adjustment. My role as an ambassador has been essential in helping others feel at home. Through the Transfer Student Programs, I felt much more at ease meeting new people and making new friends as well as getting to know Sonoma State and why it’s the best. Being involved has made my college experience unforgettable. Sonoma State will always be my second home.