Karla grew up in Santa Rosa, California. She enjoys spending time with her family and her favorite hobby is discovering different coffee shops throughout California. Inspired by her parents, Karla knows what the value of hard work can lead to and how important it is to be able to depend on your community for support.
Throughout her time at University of California, Berkeley, where she studied Chemical Engineering, Karla was active in various organizations working towards equity and community empowerment goals for low-income, first-generation, immigrant students. She co-founded a program, EOP (Educational Opportunity Program) Osos that helped Latine students on campus connect with fellow undergraduate students to thrive while obtaining their goal of higher education. Her position in this organization helped a myriad of students connect to resources throughout their journey at Berkeley. She is motivated by helping her community achieve academic, professional, and personal fulfillment and feels an immense sense of accomplishment helping out wherever she can.
Through the Dream SF Fellowship, Karla was placed at Mission Graduates. In this role she supports low-income, first-generation, immigrant communities by participating in the Parent Program Promotoras. She also supports the Marketing and Communications team, where she hopes to grow her skills in marketing and outreach.
Karla is at a crossroads at the moment in her professional journey and is exploring different avenues for her career. She aspires to pursue higher education and obtain a masters in mechanical engineering, while continuing to actively support her community.
