Maria
Position: Home Is Here Opportunity Program Participant
Maria (she/her) graduated from the University of California, Berkeley in 2023 with dual degrees in Sociology and Hispanic linguistics. Due to economic hardship, Maria’s family immigrated from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico to Long Beach, California, and Maria became undocumented at the age of four. Maria witnessed her parents face language barriers, forgo basic needs due to financial constraints, and lack access to necessary healthcare. These experiences shaped Maria’s interests and galvanized her toward a career at the intersection of immigration and public health. Maria leads with the deeply personal conviction that every immigrant deserves to live with dignity.
Currently, Maria is a public health and evaluation consultant. Through written reports, presentations, and mixed-methods data analysis, she has supported a range of stakeholders, such as nonprofits, consulting firms, and government agencies. Maria hopes to continue refining her skills to combat health disparities and advocate for marginalized communities. Outside of work, Maria enjoys reading literary fiction, staying active through lifting and running, and listening to live music.
