LEAF Scholar Spotlight: Annie Robles

Role within LEAF

Annie Robles, a scholar for CED and the LEAF scholarship, is eagerly anticipating her new role as a LEAF mentor this upcoming year. Her journey is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and unwavering spirit.

Achievements and Unique Qualities

Annie's story began in East Side San Jose, where she grew up as a Hispanic first-generation college student. From a young age, she harbored dreams of attending UCLA, a dream that came true when she was accepted into her dream school. This milestone was just the beginning of her remarkable journey.

At UCLA, Annie chose Sociology as her major. Taking various courses solidified her passion for the field, and she soon decided to pursue a minor in Anthropology. Balancing academics with part-time jobs was challenging, but Annie managed to find a rhythm that worked for her. Her determination paid off when she embarked on a month-long study abroad trip to New York, gaining credits that helped her stay on track to graduate in just three years.

Reflecting on her achievements, Annie is immensely proud of her ability to maintain such a rigorous academic schedule. "Graduating in three years instead of the traditional four is something I’m immensely proud of," she shares. But her journey is not just about academics; it's also about personal growth and embracing her identity.

Journey

Annie's journey is deeply rooted in her family’s support. Growing up with supportive parents who encouraged her dreams and educational goals made a significant difference. "Having supportive parents has encouraged me to continue my studies and even pursue my master's," she says. This support has fueled her aspiration to create safe environments for vulnerable children, a passion that stems from her own experiences.

Inspirations and Goals

Her goal is clear: to become a social worker focused on supporting children. Annie plans to pursue a Master’s in Social Work and receive her LCSW, with a specific interest in adoption. This career path was inspired by a key experience during her senior year of high school when she worked as a camp counselor at a science camp. "Spending a week with a group of kids, doing all sorts of activities and bonding with them, made me realize that working with kids is something I’d never get tired of," she shares.

As Annie prepares for her upcoming role as a mentor specialist for the first-gen program at UCLA, she remains driven by her passion to make a difference. Her journey is a powerful reminder that with determination, support, and self-acceptance, one can achieve their dreams and inspire others along the way.