Rosa Salamanca

USS Director

2021-2022

rosasalamanca@ucsb.edu

About Me: 
After moving from El Salvador to be reunited with my family, I attended high school in Los Angeles. I received a B.A. in Psychology and a B.A. in Central American Studies from California State University Northridge (CSUN). For most of my undergraduate career, I did not have DACA or financial aid. As an undocumented person, I have had to navigate higher education, family expectations, career opportunities and a variety experiences unique of the undocumented reality. I have over a decade of working with and for undocumented students and families and I strive to create to create more equitable opportunities for undocumented students. 

I am very passionate about joy and wellness. I love spending time around a campfire under the stars next to a river and a tent. My dog is my best friend and the love of my life. Her name is Luna and she loves exploring the world with me. Dancing, friendship and bodies of water bring me joy. I am a new plant parent and books are becoming some of my closest friends. 

Where are you and/or your family from? 
I was born and raised in San Miguel, El Salvador, and came to the U.S. at the age of 16. 

What words of wisdom do you have for undocumented students? 

Give yourself grace, kindness and compassion. Your status doesn't determine your worth and value. 

What is one thing off your bucket list? 
Hiking and exploring nature.