Nicolette Valdez ’02, Ed.M.’05

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A double major in physiological sciences and music history, Nicolette Valdez ’02, Ed.M.’05 went on to pursue a master’s degree in urban education. This graduated Alumni Scholar continues the Alumni Scholars Club (ASC) tradition of enriching her community through her job with the Los Angeles Unified School District.

What aspect of ASC did you enjoy most?
Talking to incoming or potential Alumni Scholars. I was able to share my experiences while encouraging them to take advantage of all the opportunities they would have through ASC. As a Bunche Scholar, I became the Dr. Ralph J. Bunche Programs director, which helped me reach out to more people.

What were your priorities as the Bunche Scholars director?
I paid a lot of attention to prospective members of ASC. My committee would get together in homes and just talk to the kids as UCLA students — as Alumni Scholars – and share our perspectives on college. I encouraged minority students to come to UCLA.

Why did you choose to go into education?
I currently teach science to eighth graders in South Los Angeles. Teaching was always in the back of my mind, but it was during my time at UCLA where it became my passion. I noticed the low number of underprivileged students in higher education. If you’re the only Latina in a class, you tend to notice it. I thought it would be amazing to help change this, to have an impact on disadvantaged students. Now, I teach in an historically underprivileged area, and it’s what I wake up for every day.

If you had a million dollars, what would you do?
I’d continue to teach! I suppose I’d pay off school loans and buy a house, but I wouldn’t give up the chance to encourage these students. It’s my dream job.

Do you have advice for your fellow Bruins?
Take advantage of networking opportunities. Make sure to be an inspiration to kids. Encourage volunteering, because it’s been my experience that these programs can turn people’s lives around. Whether you’re a student or a graduate, by inspiring younger students, you are giving back to UCLA. In turn, those students you inspired will do the same thing down the road. Don’t bypass the opportunity to positively affect someone’s journey through life.