Kaila Silveira

My name is Kaila Silveira, my pronouns are she/her/hers, and I’m currently a third-year student at Sonoma State University. I’m a Portuguese, Filipina, Catholic, and Queer student who was born and raised in San Jose, California. Growing up in a family oriented household and being a part of various school and sports communities has shaped me to become an independent, motivated, responsible, and caring individual. My experience with sports and passion to help others has lead me to become a kinesiology student with an exercise science concentration. I aspire to attend graduate school to earn my doctorate of physical therapy and learn holistic medicine practices such as Reiki.

While at Sonoma State, I have worn multiple hats. I was a student-athlete at SSU for a year and a half. For the past two summers, I held a student leadership position as a Summer Orientation leader and coached children’s soccer in the Bay Area. Currently, I am a Student Peer Advisor, CAPS advocate/attendee, and member of the Women of Color Collective.

The transition to Sonoma State was challenging because I came from a diverse area, attended Catholic school for 12 years, and experienced financial hardships. I found it difficult to find my niche but eventually found loving individuals who accepted me for all of my salient identities. Sonoma has provided me with the environment to grow, learn, and accept all of my intersectionalities. I am beyond thankful for these experiences and hope to continue connecting with others.