Peter's Person: Vincent Ngo. Name: Vincent Ngo. Nickname: Prince Vince. 3rd year (transfer), biological sciences. High school: Marina – Huntington Beach, California. Organizations: President – Bboys Anonymous, SPOP staff Gold Year, Gia Dinh Phat Tu Buddhist Youth Group, OC Red Cross. What you don’t know about me: First generation immigrant…and proud of it. Get involved: All day, every day. Meet people: Because they want to meet you too. At the ARC: In my Bboy stance. Best place to study: Science Library, aka “The Starship Enterprise”. UCI in one word: You. OC weekend spot: Little Saigon, Westminster – Mm...pho! In 5 years, I will be: Dr. Bboy. Make a difference: And change yourself at the same time. You know you’re an Anteater when: You don’t need a football team to go ‘ZOT ZOT!’ Undergraduate research is: Full of surprises. Living on campus: Once in a lifetime thing. Unexpected about me: “Carpe Diem.” Unexpected about UCI: Best decision of my life.
Peter's Person: Osvaldo Vasquez. Osvaldo Vazquez. 3rd year (transfer), biological science. High school: Anaheim – Anaheim, California. Organizations: California Alliance for Minority Participation (CAMP), Santa Ana
Transfer Mentorship Program. What you don’t know about me: I enjoy writing music for guitar. At the ARC: Speed Soccer is the best! OC weekend spot: Jazz cafés in downtown Fullerton. UCI in one word: Peaceful. New student tip: Get to know your professor’s testing styles and note taking. In 5 years, I will be: Doing my own genetic and molecular biology research project. Make a difference: By sharing your experience with transferring students. You’re an Anteater when: You sleep over at the Student Center during finals. Undergraduate Research is: A must do experience. Unexpected about me: I do my best when working under stress. Unexpected about UCI: It brings out the best in you!
Peter's Person: Melissa Benitez. Melissa Benitez. 3rd year, earth and environmental sciences and public health sciences. High school: Tesoro – Las Flores, California. Organizations: California Alliance for Minority Participation (CAMP), Campuswide Honors Program (CHP), UCI CalTeach, Students for Sustainability, University Catholic Community, Children's Liturgy of the Word, Environment California, Greenpeace. What you don't know about me: I was born in Mexico and my favorite animal is a killer whale. Favorite event: UCI Earth Day. Best place to chill: UCI Interfaith. UCI in one word: Amazing. In 5 years I will be: Teaching and making an impact in someone's life. You're an Anteater when: You hang out at UCI on the weekends. Undergraduate research is: A key to opening doors for your future.
Peter's Person: Martin Vu. Martin Vu. 1st year, business administration. High school: Fountain Valley – Fountain Valley, California. Organizations: Merage Undergraduate Student Association (MUSA), Gió Nam Múa Lâm (Southern wind Lion Dance), Open Jam, National Society for Leadership and Success, Vienamese Eucharistic Youth Society. What you don't know about me: I have a patch of white hair on the back of my head. Get involved: Don't limit yourself by waiting. Favorite event: Undie Run. Best place to chill: Middle Earth. UCI in one word: Construction. New student tip: Hard-hat. In 5 years I will be: CEO of a company. You're an Anteater when: You chant “UCI” as tour group walks by. Undergraduate research is: An opportunity to learn new things. Unexpected about me: I am a musician and had my first performance at the Phoenix Grill. Unexpected about UCI: Good parking.
Peter's Person: Karen Zhou. Karen Zhou. 1st year, business. High school: Rim of the World – Lake Arrowhead, California. Organizations: U.S. Figure Skating Association (USFSA), International Skating Union (ISU), All Year Figure Skating Club. What you don't know about me: I graduated high school when I was 16 and my sister was also an Anteater. At the Student Center: There are so many helpful resources students can use. At the ARC: State-of-the-art equipment. Favorite event: UCI Bookstore's Mad Film Dash. Favorite magazine: International Figure Skating. New student tip: Check your UCI e-mail frequently. UCI in one word: Perfection. In 5 years, I will be: Graduating with an MBA. Make a difference: By using my business degree in the skating world. You're an Anteater when: You wear your UCI sweatshirt everywhere you go. Unexpected about me: I have competed in various figure skating events throughout the U.S., Italy and Finland. Unexpected about UCI: The friendliness of the faculty and professors – they all want you to succeed.
Peter's Person: Luis Toral. Luis Toral. 4th year, Spanish literature & global cultures, business management minor. High school: Aliso Niguel – Aliso Viejo, California. Organizations: Co-chair – Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan (MEChA de UCI). What you don't know about me: Chicano at heart. Favorite event: Mes de la Raza. Best place to chill: At the Cross-Cultural Center. UCI in one word: Scenic. New student tip: Get involved in campus organizations. OC weekend spot: Dana Point Harbor. In 5 years, I will be: Finishing my Ph.D. in Spanish Literature. Make a difference: Through student activism. You're an Anteater when: You don't get lost getting to class. Undergraduate research is: Rewarding and self-fulfilling. Unexpected about me: Learning to play flamenco guitar. Unexpected about UCI: Students of color are highly motivated.
Peter's Person: Gabriela Marcu. Gabriela Marcu. Nickname: Gabi. 5th year, informatics. High school: Windsor – Windsor, California. Organizations: Women in Information and Computer Sciences, Informatics Student Association, Campuswide Honors Program, SAGE Scholars Program. What you don't know about me: I am a researcher on technologies that support individuals with disabilities. At the Student Center: Anthill Pub. At the ARC: Affordable massages. UCI in one word: Sunny. Best place to study: Donald Bren Hall. New student tip: Professors are approachable. In 5 years, I will be: A research professor. Make a difference: In one of UCI's 300+ clubs. OC weekend spot: Balboa Island. Undergraduate research is: My life. Unexpected about me: I was born in Romania. Unexpected about UCI: Lots of new buildings and great facilities.
Peter's Person: Trung Nguyen. Trung Nguyen: Nickname: Tim. 4th year, earth system science & biology. High school: Damien – La Verne, California. Organizations: UCI Cycling Club, M.E.M.O. (Medical, Educational, Missions and Outreach), Alternative Spring Break. What you don't know about me: I made Eagle Scout. At the Student Center: I like to eat and take a break from class. At the ARC: CrossFit. Favorite event: Sea Otter Classic. Favorite magazine: Dirt Rag. Best place to study: Libraries Gateway Study Center. In 5 years, I will be: In graduate school. Make a difference: Volunteer as much as you can. Undergraduate research: On global sustainability is exciting! Living on campus: Best decision I ever made. Unexpected about me: I love researching. Unexpected about UCI: Very fun campus.
Peter's Person: Dean Bottino. Dean Bottino. 4th year, studio arts, digital arts minor. High school: Dana Hills – Dana Point, California. Organizations: Video Game Development Club, Golden Key International Honour Society, ICU Tokyo Alumni, California School of Seven Star Mantis Fist Kung Fu. What you don't know about me: Sometimes I build little models of video games characters out of paper. At the Student Center: You can see me playing Guilty Gear X. At the ARC: I probably made the poster you'll see when you walk in. Favorite event Senior Art Exhibition. Favorite magazine: Weekly Famitsu. OC weekend spot: Mitsuwa Marketplace, Costa Mesa. New student tip: Use the library. I found 20 books on video games! In 5 years, I will be: Making video games. You're an Anteater when: Your diet consists primarily of ants. Unexpected about me: I lived in Japan for a spell and can play the shamisen. Unexpected about UCI: there's an arcade in the Student Center despite the fact they went extinct in the late ’80s.
Peter's Person: Amanda Varshawsky. Amanda Varshawsky. 3rd year, chemistry. High school: Moorpark – Moorpark, California. Organizations: School of Physical Sciences Peer Academic Advisor, Eta Kappa Chapter of Alpha Phi. What you don't know about me: I love to travel and try new restaurants. At the Student Center: Great central point on campus for all students. At the ARC: A place to de-stress and get a good workout. UCI in one word: Opportunities. In 5 years, I will be: Graduating law school. Make a difference: In the community because we are the future. Undergraduate research is: Always thriving and allows so many opportunities for students. Living on campus: Is the best experience to get to know great and different people. Unexpected about me: I went backpacking through Europe over the summer. Unexpected about UCI: Relaxing and inviting campus.
Peter's Person: Praveen De Silva. Praveen De Silva. Nickname: Pringle. 5th year, mechanical & material science engineering. High school: University – Irvine, California. Organizations: UCI SAGE Scholars Program, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), SAGE Scholars 4 Scholars (SS4S). What you don't know about me: I love sketching cars and playing my guitar. Favorite event: Engineering Week and New Year's celebration. Best place to chill: South Lake in Woodbridge, Irvine. UCI in one word: Awesome! In 5 years, I will be: Working at BMW's DesignworksUSA. Make a difference: Enjoy mentoring and tutoring high schoolers. You're an Anteater when: You drive to school. Undergraduate research is: New molding processes for carbon fiber composites. Unexpected about me: I moved to the U.S. from Colombo, Sri Lanka when I was 13. Unexpected about UCI: Very relaxing environment.
Peter's Person: Kirstie Caccam. Kirstie Caccam. Nickname: Tee-C. 3rd year, nursing science. High school: Grace Brethren – Simi Valley, California. Organizations: UCI Interfaith, Nursing Science Student Association at UCI, CFC Youth at UCI, University Catholic Community. What you don't know about me: Nursing was the last thing I wanted to do, but found it is what I love most. At the ARC: Free dance and fitness classes. Best place to study: Vista del Campo study rooms. Favorite event: CFC Youth at Christ's Praisefest. In 5 years, I will be: A registered nurse, married and running my own hospice agency. Make a difference: Get involved in campus affairs. You're an Anteater when: You learn how to ‘Zot’ at freshman convocation. Undergraduate research: Opens up great opportunities. Living on campus: Allows you to meet great people and go to programs after your classes. Unexpected about me: I seem shy but I am a firecracker! Unexpected about UCI: Big school with a comfortable small school feeling.
Peter's Person: Alexandra Yee. Alexandra Yee. Nickname: Alex. 3rd year, Asian American studies. High school: Punahou School, Honolulu, Hawaii. Organizations: President, Na ‘Opio o Ka ‘aina (Hawai’i Club), UCI National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). What you don’t know about me: I went to the same school in Hawai’i as President Obama. Favorite event: Hawai’i Club’s Annual Lu‘au. Best place to chill: Student Center food courts. New student tip: Take LARC tutoring if you need help, it is a lifesaver! OC weekend spot: L&L Hawaiian BBQ, a taste of home. In 5 years, I will be back home in Hawai’i running my own business. You’re an Anteater when you publicly admit to being an Anteater. Undergraduate research is important and takes hard work, passion and dedication. Unexpected about me: I like shoes more than slippers even though I’m from Hawai’i, and I love to skateboard. Unexpected about UCI: No matter what type of person you are, you can find your passion and a group of people you can share it with.
Peter's Person: Moran Cohen. Moran Cohen. Nickname: Mo. 2nd year, business economics. High school: Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills, California. Organizations: Hillel at UCI, Anteaters for Israel, Olive Tree Initiative (OTI), Ohr Letzion Congregation.
What you don’t know about me: I was born and raised in Israel. Get involved: In clubs and organizations of your career field or interest.
At the ARC: Swimming pool. Favorite event: iFest and Reggaefest. Best place to study: First floor, Langson Library. In 5 years, I will be: Happy, successful and ready for a family life. Make a difference: By doing things for others. Undergraduate research: Sounds scary but it isn’t. Living on campus: A great experience that helps you adjust. Unexpected about me: I am a UCI Dalai Lama Scholar. Unexpected about UCI: Open minds and open people.
Peter's Person: Jared Childress. Jared Childress. 3rd year, African American studies & literary journalism. High school: Sacramento; Sacramento, California. Organizations: Afrikan Student Union (ASU), Cross-Cultural Center Umbrella Council, Students Tutoring & Outreaching to the Minority Population (STOMP). What you don’t know about me: I’m a first generation college student.
At the Student Center: I love to sit at the tables on the terrace. Favorite magazine: VIBE.
Best place to chill: ASU office in the Cross-Cultural Center. In 5 years, I will be: Traveling - Africa, Italy and China. Make a difference: In big and small ways. You’re an
Anteater when: You know how a real anteater looks. Undergraduate research is: Very important for graduate standing and personal learning. Living on campus: At Rosa Parks House in Arroyo Vista is the best. Unexpected about me: I studied ballet for six years. Unexpected about UCI: A lot of hidden resources and opportunities.
Peter's Person: Sally Mouakkad. Sally Mouakkad: 4th year, political science, anthropology minor. High school: Francisco Bravo Medical Magnet, Los Angeles, California. Organizations: Middle East Studies Student Initiative (MESSI), Olive Tree Initiative (OTI), Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) fellow, Pi Gamma Mu, Political Science Honors, ASUCI, Humanities Out There (HOT), The Midnight Mission. What you don’t know about me: I can sing in five languages - English, Arabic, Greek, Spanish and French. Favorite event: Anteater Bite. Favorite magazine: Foreign Affairs. OC weekend spot: Open mic night at the Gypsy Den. In 5 years, I will be: Working on public policy on Capitol Hill. You’re an Anteater when: You get a text message about the next basketball game. Undergraduate research is: Stressful but an amazing experience. Unexpected about me: I was an extra in a Mariah Carey MTV video. Unexpected about UCI: A private school experience at a top research university.
Peter's Person: Willoughby Peterson. Willoughby Peterson. Nickname: Will. 1st year, environmental engineering. High school: Sitka, Sitka, Alaska. Organizations: President-American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), American Indian Student Association (AISA). What you don’t know about me: I lived on Baranof Island, pop. 8,500, in Alaska (no, not in an igloo). At the ARC: I impress the ladies [wink]. Best place to chill: Under the cool trees in Aldrich Park. UCI in one word: Friendly. Favorite magazine: Scientific American. New student tip: Do not be afraid to try new things. In 5 years, I will be: Saving the world through innovation. You’re an Anteater when: You chase bunnies for fun. Living on campus: Feeds you well.
Peter's Person: Jane Chin. Jane Chin. Nickname: Janey. 5th year, criminology, law & society, psychology & social behavior minor. High school: Marina, Huntington Beach, California. Organizations: UCI Women’s Golf team, Women’s Christian Colleges Group for Golfers. What you don’t know about me: I did ballet, tap and jazz for eight years. Get involved: Anywhere and any time you can. At the Student Center: Try all the food. Favorite event: Vendor fairs on Ring Mall. Best place to study: Lower level of the Student Center. New student tip: Come early for parking. Favorite magazine: Golf Week. In 5 years, I will be: Playing professional golf. You’re an Anteater when: You know what ‘ZOT’ means. Living on campus: Was the best time of my UCI life.
Peter's Person: Cheyenne Reynoso. Cheyenne Reynoso. 1st year, undecided. High school: Orange County High School of the Arts, Santa Ana, California. Organizations: President - American Indian Student Association (AISA), Cross-Cultural Center Umbrella Council, American Indian Resource Center (AIRC), Calvary Chapel WestGrove. What you don’t know about me: I am a first generation college student. Favorite event: American Indian Heritage Month. Favorite magazine: National Geographic. In 5 years, I will be: Working to make a change within the American Indian community. You’re an Anteater when: You go to the zoo just to see the anteaters. Undergraduate research: You will not regret it when you are done. Living on campus: History in the making. Unexpected about me: I absolutely love the smell of burning sage. Unexpected about UCI: Swarming with wildlife especially bunnies.
Peter's Person: Nick Goldsbrough-Reardon. Nick Goldsbrough-Reardon. Nickname: Goldy. 4th year (transfer), Chinese language &
international studies. High school: Caulfield Grammar School, Victoria, Australia. Organizations: UCI Men’s Volleyball team. What you don’t know about me: I’m from Australia and speak Chinese. Get involved: In UCI’s athletic teams and have school spirit. Meet people: Outside Langson Library. Favorite magazine: New University, Mark Ratto’s and Liz Hahm’s columns. UCI in one word: Unique. OC weekend spot: Swirls frozen desserts. In 5 years, I will be: A professional athlete or working in China as a diplomat. You’re an Anteater when: You don’t wear other schools’ sweatshirts. Living on campus: Is interesting. Unexpected about me: I was a translator for the Australian team at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. Unexpected about UCI: There are truly amazing people here.
Peter's Person: Genie Luzwick. Genie Luzwick. Nickname: Genus. 4th year, anthropology, film studies & management minors. High school: Pacific Hill, West Hollywood, California. Organizations: Production Director & DJ on KUCI radio, Grass Ninjas - Irvine Women’s Ultimate, Greater West Hollywood Food Coalition. What you don’t know about me: I can furnish any house for free. Best place to chill: KUCI. At the Student Center: They have a lot of free food during events. Favorite event: Acrobatics Everyday. Favorite magazine: Mental Floss. In 5 years, I will be: Eating the perfect sandwich on my quadricycle. Make a difference: By talking to strangers. You’re an Anteater when: You go around collecting pine cones as gifts for your friends. Living on campus: Allows you to wake up as late as humanly possible. Unexpected about me: I flash mob. Unexpected about UCI: There is a Frisbee golf course on the lampposts in Aldrich Park.
Peter's Person: Yaoxiang Zhou. Yaoxiang Zhou. Nickname: Steven. 4th year, information & computer sciences. High school: Guangya School, Guangzhou, China. Organizations: UCI Badminton Club. What you don't know about me: I played Men's Single for UCI in the 2009 Collegiate Nationals Badminton Championship; UCI won 2nd place! Get involved: Join clubs and go to events. At the ARC: Weight room and back court gym. Best place to chill: ICS Lab 364. New student tip: Explore around the campus and do not trust ratemyprofessor.com. In 5 years I will be: A software engineer. Make a difference: By applying your knowledge to the real world. You're an anteater when: You 'ZOT' with Peter the Anteater. Living on campus: Is great and very convenient. Unexpected about me: I do not eat much at all-you-can-eat buffets. Unexpected about UCI: We have an awesome badminton team.
Peter's Person: Bria Biggs. Bria Biggs. Nickname: Bri-Bri. 4th year, dance, biology minor. High school: St. Bernard – Playa del Rey, California. Organizations: Minority Association for Pre-Health Students (MAPS), Campuswide Honors Program (CHP), Dance Department Undergraduate Committee, National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS). What you don't know about me: I was in an Alltel commercial on TV and I could live on mac 'n' cheese. Get involved: with charity events. Best place to chill: On the grass by the Student Center. At the ARC: There are some great classes. New student tip: Get involved and meet as many people as you can! In 5 years I will be: Opening an optimal performance facility to rehabilitate athletes/dancers. Undergraduate research is: Very useful, take advantage of it. Living on campus: Is a great experience and brought me closer to my good friends. Unexpected about me: I am one of the Los Angeles Lakers Girls. Unexpected about UCI: World renowned dance teachers.
Peter's Person: Jesse Cheng. Jesse Cheng. Nickname: jCheng. 3rd year, Asian American studies, education minor. High school: Monta Vista – Cupertino, California. Organizations: Uncultivated Rabbits, Student Fee Advisory Committee (SFAC), ASUCI,Asian Pacific Student Association (APSA), Cross-Cultural Center (CCC) Umbrella Council, CCC Multicultural Programming Committee, Academic Senate, Orange County Asian Pacific Islander Community Alliance. What you don't know about me: Aspiring spoken word artist. At the Student Center: Wendy's Frosty Float with orange soda. At the ARC: Sushi kitchen. New student tip: take risks and reflect. OC weekend spot: Take OCTA bus to anywhere, it's free! In 5 years I will be: Saving the world one vote at a time. You're an Anteater when: You defend your mascot viciously. Living on campus: Is almost like living in paradise. Unexpected about me: Never expected to go to college. Unexpected about UCI: The artistry.
Peter's Person: Rebecca Mesch. Rebecca Mesch. Nickname: Rebex. 3rd year, arts & humanities, education minor. High school: Fremont, Sunnyvale, California. Organizations: Co-founder Clair de Lune A Cappella, Campuswide Honors Program (CHP), Circle K International, UCI Chamber Choir. What you don’t know about me: Traveled to England and Wales for international music competition. Get involved: Where you’re passionate. At the ARC: 11 laps on the track, dance practice in the mirrored rooms. Favorite event: Welcome Week Club Fair. New student tip: Get involved, otherwise UCI is just a school. In 5 years, I will be: Traveling abroad teaching English. You’re an Anteater when: Your campus is a circle. Undergraduate research is: Excellent preparation for the future. Unexpected about me: I work as a teaching assistant and a conversation partner to Japanese exchange students. Unexpected
about UCI: There’s a club for everybody’s interest.
Peter's Person: Hai Vo. Hai Vo. 4th year, social ecology. High school: Ocean View, Huntington Beach, California. Organizations: Real Food Challenge at UCI, Students for Sustainability, Slow Food, Earth Resource Foundation. What you don’t know about me: Born in Iowa. At the Student Center: Beautiful pomegranate trees by the loading dock
At the ARC: Check out the cooking classes. Best place to chill: Walking trails in University Hills. New student tip: Eat local, organic, humane and fair. OC weekend spot: Irvine Farmers’ Market at University Town Center. In 5 years, I will be: Producing ecological, humane, fair and local food. You’re an Anteater when: You know the shortcuts through Aldrich Park. Undergraduate research is: Interdisciplinary. Unexpected about me: I’m going to farm! Unexpected about UCI: Hidden fruit trees to glean.
Peter's Person: Russell Curry. Russell Curry. Nickname: Sun E Boi. 4th year, biological sciences. High school: Alta Loma, Alta Loma, California. Organizations: Afrikan Student Union (ASU), Students Tutoring & Outreaching to the Minority Population (STOMP). What you don’t know about me: I am tri-racial - African-American, Caucasian, Japanese. At the Student Center: Eat at the pub. At the ARC: Basketball all day. Favorite event: African Consciousness Quarter. Best place to chill: At the Cross-Cultural Center. UCI in one word: Tight-knit. In 5 years, I will be: Everyone’s favorite rapper. Make a difference: If you don’t, who will? You’re an Anteater when: Your Facebook page is set to private because everyone knows each other. Living on campus: Is a life changing experience. Unexpected about me: I was on the cover of the New U performing at Antstock, and won best instrumentation. Unexpected about UCI: ‘Greenest,’ most sustainable UC campus.
Peter's Person: Ryan Fisher. Ryan Fisher. Nickname: Fish. 3rd year, civil engineering. High school: East Union, Manteca, California. Organizations: UCI Anteaters baseball team, ASUCI, American Society of Civil Engineers. What you don’t know about me: Ping pong is my No. 1 sport - I can’t be beat. Meet people: At UCI baseball games! At the Student Center: Great food and the Zot Zone arcade. At the ARC: The weight room is the place to be. New student tip: Enjoy every moment in college, it goes by so fast. Best place to study: Science Library. Best place to chill: On the basketball court. Favorite magazine: Men’s Health. In 5 years, I will be: Playing Major League Baseball. Living on campus: Is great, it’s so close to everything. Unexpected about me: I hit and play catch with my little brother every day. Unexpected about UCI: Newport Beach is a bike ride away.
Peter's Person: Daniel Johnson. Daniel Johnson. 4th year, literary journalism, film & media studies, Asian American studies minor. High school: Medford, Medford, Massachusetts. Organizations: New University editor-in-chief, KUCI radio DJ. What you don’t know about me: I was headbutted by a pig. as a child. Get involved: By joining student groups. At the ARC: Walk around with your shirt off, it’s the best way to get noticed. Best place to study: Gateway Commons. OC weekend spot: New U newsroom. New student tip: Get your tough classes out of the way early. In 5 years, I will be: Finished with graduate school. You’re an Anteater when: You can compile your own body weight in class notes. Undergraduate research is: Good for my skin and keeps me radiant. Living on campus: Has its advantages, you can walk to class. Unexpected about me: I never planned to be an Asian American Studies minor.
Unexpected about UCI: Students are on campus all hours of the day.
Peter's Person: Rachel Marie Bell. Rachel Marie Bell. Nickname: Rach. 5th year, dance, english & biology minors. High school: San Pasqual, Escondido, California. Organizations: Bare Bones Dance Theater, Arts Peer Academic Advisor, Alpha Chi Omega. What you don’t know about me: I am a Tierney Arts Scholar, Medici Scholar, Greeks’ 2008 Senior of the Year, Distinguished Anteater Scholar. At the ARC: I teach Pilates. Favorite event: Bare Bones Dance Theater’s annual concert. Best place to chill: In Aldrich Park. Best place to study: 4th floor Langson or Science Library. OC weekend spot: Balboa Island. In 5 years, I will be: Advocating for the performing arts. You’re an Anteater when: You know UCI was the best place for you. Undergraduate research is: Essential. Unexpected about me: 2008 President of the Year - Dean of Students’ Anteater Awards. Unexpected about UCI: Amazing amount of undergraduate research opportunities.
Peter's Person: Ching-Yun Li. Ching-Yun Li. Nickname: Chingy. 3rd year, philosophy, humanities & law minor. High school: El Camino, Oceanside, California. Organizations: UCI CALPIRG president, Student Fee Advisory Committee (SFAC), UCI Interfaith, Ultimate Club at UCI. What you don’t know about me: I was born in Hong Kong and know how to wiggle my ears. At the ARC: The Famous Steps machine - successfully climbing the Eiffel Tower. OC weekend spot: Disneyland, happiest place on Earth. In 5 years, I will be: Working to serve others in a public defender’s office. Make a difference: Reuse and recycle, bring your own coffee mug. You’re an Anteater when: You are looking forward to Korean barbeque on Ring Mall. Living on campus: My freshman year in Sierra Hall was one of the best experiences of my life. Unexpected about me: I studied abroad in Paris for a semester, living on French cheese and baguettes. Unexpected about UCI: Diversity of student clubs and extracurricular activities.
Peter's Person: Jon Steller. Jon Steller. 4th year, neurobiology & classical civilizations. High school: Clovis West – Fresno, California. Organizations: Beta Theta Pi, Order of Omega, ASUCI, Rock Harbor Church, Hoag Hospital Clinical Care Extender. What you don't know about me: I play opposite on UCI's No. 1 ranked men's volleyball team. Meet people: At UCI volleyball games! At the Student Center: Eat, hang out, study in the courtyard. Favorite event: Midnight Magic. New student tip: Get involved in a diverse array of activities. In 5 years, I will be: A doctor. Make a difference: Serve the underserved. You're an Anteater when: You give an anteater to the president of the United States! Undergraduate research is: Spinal cord injury research with the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. Unexpected about me: I'm engaged and have a tattoo symbolizing my personal philosophy. Unexpected about UCI: 25 national championships including 2007 NCAA Men's Volleyball Champions.
Peter's Person: Victoria Flores. Victoria Flores. 5th year, neurobiology. High school: Sonora, La Habra, California. Organizations: Flying Samaritans, Chicanos/Latinos for Community Medicine (CCM). What you don’t know about me: I am a CAMP Edison scholar. Get involved: Because when revolution comes you don’t want to be lost. At the ARC: I work out on anything that will make my arms bigger. Favorite event: Reggaefest. New student tip: Do not listen to those forces pushing you out of school, stay because you will never regret it. OC weekend spot: Downtown Fullerton. In 5 years, I will be: In UCI School of Medicine’s Program in Medical Education for the Latino Community (PRIME-LC). Undergraduate research is: Not like Dr. Frankenstein’s laboratory. Unexpected about me: I am one of 10 Americans to win the Aspiring Doc Video contest. Unexpected about UCI: Great campus cafés especially Café Med.
Peter's Person: Anthony Kline. Anthony Kline. Nickname: AK. 4th year, literary journalism, history minor. High school: Orange Lutheran, Orange, California. Organizations: Sigma Chi, Interfraternity Council, Africa Project, Songfest, University Housing RA, Liaison for Student Affairs Development. What you don’t know about me: I’m an East Coast California kid. Get involved: Where you’re passionate. At the ARC: Yoga class: 9 a.m. Saturday. Favorite event: Sigma Chi's Derby Days. New student tip: Introduce yourself to professors before you fail an exam. In 5 years, I will be: Big time. You’re an Anteater when: Free time is spent at the library. Undergraduate research is: Reading, writing and espresso. Unexpected about me: I love comic books and animé. Unexpected about UCI: Strongest student body of any university.
Peter's Person: Kiara Belen. Kiara Bele. Nickname: Kiki. 1st year, undecided. High School: Bishop Gorman, Las Vegas, Nevada. Organizations: UCI Women’s Basketball, ASUCI, Athletes In Action. What you don’t know about me: I sing and perform R&B in L.A. as well as model. At the ARC: Weights and basketball courts. Favorite event: UCI basketball games. New student tip: Do your readings, don’t procrastinate. Favorite magazine: Ebony. OC weekend spot: The beach. In 5 years, I will be: Performing somewhere big. You’re an Anteater when: You throw up the ZOT!
Undergraduate research is: Very necessary. Unexpected about me: A national spokesperson for “Boost Up” PSA and billboard campaign. Unexpected about UCI: Amazing!
Peter's Person: Ruben Hipolito. Ruben Hipolito, 3rd year, biology & Spanish. High school: Ocean View – Huntington Beach, California. Organizations: The Archery Club at UCI, Bliss & Wisdom International, Boy Scouts of America (BSA), Sea Scouts BSA, Venturing BSA. What you don't know about me: I was selected from 3.5 million Scouts to represent Sea Scouting to President Obama in the Oval Office and Congress in March 2009. Get involved: In clubs, sports and community service. At the ARC: Nine hours a week, Filipino Martial Arts. Favorite magazine: Sailing World. New student tip: Meet everyone you can. In 5 years, I will be: In UCI School of Medicine. Living on campus: Is a new level of independence. Unexpected about me: I am currently 10th in the nation and hold two archery state records. Unexpected about UCI: You can know almost everyone.
Peter's Person: Megan Braun. Megan Braun. 4th year, history & philosophy; humanities minor. High school: Coronado – Coronado, California. Organizations: ASUCI President, UCI Women's Waterpolo, Habitat for Humanity. What you don't know about me: Lived in Okinawa, Japan for 2 years. Get involved: With ASUCI. At the Student Center: TV lounges are the best kept secret. Favorite event: Shocktoberfest. New student tip: Go to athletic events. In 5 years, I will be: A JAG attorney for the U.S. Navy. You're an Anteater when: You find yourself explaining the expression “Rip ’Em Eaters.” Undergraduate research is: A must. Living on campus: Do it as much as possible, it's best to be close to schools & other students. Unexpected about me: I love to read Westerns. Unexpected about UCI: Extraordinary number of campus events.
Peter's Person: Sarah Bana. Sarah Bana. 3rd year, quantitative economics. High school: Arcadia, Arcadia, California. Organizations: President - UCI Circle K International, Cross-Cultural Center, Administrative Intern Program, Reaffirming Ethnic Awareness and Community Harmony (R.E.A.C.H.), Student Center Board. What you don’t know about me: I love to write poetry. Best place to chill: Aldrich Park. Favorite event: Welcome Week. In 5 years, I will be: An economist. You’re an Anteater when: You take a nap at the Student Center. Undergraduate research is: Enlightening. Living on campus: Experience of a lifetime. Unexpected about me: I’m a coffee addict. Unexpected about UCI: There’s a place for everyone.
Peter's Person: Erik Christensen. Erik Christensen. Nickname: Big E. 4th year, psychology & social behavior, criminology, conflict resolution minor. High school: Nevada Union, Grass Valley, California. Organizations: Founder - Veterans Student Union, Transfer Student Center, Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, Golden Key Honor Society, founding member - Student Veterans of America, Young Democrats, New University. What you don’t know about me: I’m a UCI Global Connect volunteer teaching high school students about avoiding conflict from a global standpoint. At the Student Center: Watch Kaba Modern while having custom-made pasta. OC weekend spot: Laguna Beach. New student tip: Take advantage of the great surfing. In 5 years, I will be: An environmental or constitutional law attorney. Undergraduate research is: Crucial to growing as a student and getting into graduate school. Unexpected about me: I’m a wounded veteran of the Iraq war, deployed with the 101st Airborne in 2003. Unexpected about UCI: Bumping into world-renowned scholar Dean Erwin Chemerinsky or NBA All-Star Kobe Bryant.
Peter's Person: Kristin Oto. Kristin Oto. Nickname: K.O. 3rd year, political science; humanities and law, conflict resolution minors. High school: John F. Kennedy – Scramento, California. Organizations: ASUCI Spirit Commissioner, Alpha Phi, Sacramento Internship Program Coordinator, UCDC Internship Program 2008. What you don't know about me: I'm a gymnast, I love sailing and office supplies. At the ARC: The stairmaster is brutal. Favorite event: Homecoming, Shocktoberfest, Reggaefest and Wayzgoose. Best place to chill: ASUCI office. Best place to study: Coffee shop, I recommend the Lost Bean in Tustin. New student tip: Meet people, ask for help, go to UCI games and get a calendar. OC weekend spot: Irvine Spectrum. Living on campus: Is so much fun and super convenient. Unexpected about me: I don't like shrimp, sashimi or lobster. Unexpected about UCI: Anteater spirit!
Peter's Person: Stephen Marley. Stephen Marley. 3rd year, sociology, women’s studies minor. High school: Diamond Ranch, Pomona, California. Organizations: CHAMPS (Challenging All Men to Prevent Sexism), UCI V-Day, The Social Club at UCI. What you don’t know about me: I know sign language. Get involved: Because college is just a school without it. At the ARC: Rock wall. Favorite event: Carrying my torch at UCI CARE’s Take Back the Night. New student tip: Get involved. In 5 years, I will be: In student affairs ... somewhere. You know you’re an Anteater when: College football doesn’t matter anymore. Undergraduate research is: Your contribution to your field of study. Unexpected about me: I am the executive producer of UCI’s production of Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues. Unexpected about UCI: Open minded nature of the community.
Peter's Person: Hui-Ling Malone. Hui-Ling Malone. Nickname: Moo. 2nd year, international studies. High school: Davis, Davis, California. Organizations: Student Tutoring & Outreaching to the Minority Population (STOMP), Afrikan Student Union, Cross-Cultural Center Umbrella Council. What you don’t know about me: I’m proud to be both African-American and Chinese, and my sister is a UCI alumna. Get involved: By working toward a just society. At the ARC: I always run 3 miles on the treadmill. Favorite event: High school outreach stayovers. New student tip: Learn from your mistakes and always move forward. OC weekend spot: Rosa Parks House in Arroyo Vista. In 5 years, I will be: In graduate school. You’re an Anteater when: You say “Zot Zot.”
Undergraduate research is: Valuable. Unexpected about me: Through STOMP, I reach out to minority students to support them during their college application process. Unexpected about UCI: A home away from home with a great support system.