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The Souza Leadership Center welcomes young leaders from Merced!

December 1, 2019

The Souza Leadership Center welcomes young leaders from Merced! 

The Margo F. Souza Student Leadership Center welcomed youth from various high schools in Merced who are participants of the Jr. Leadership Merced program run by the Merced Chamber of Commerce. 

The Souza Center planned a day of learning and empowerment for these students, including a panel with UC Merced undergraduate students, during which first-year and Transfer Bobcats talked about their transition to a 4-year university. 

From the Article published by UC Merced News: 

"Fifteen students from Merced County high schools experienced a bit of college life this week as part of the Junior Leadership Merced program.

The students visited UC Merced on Monday, Nov. 25, spending time with staff members from The Margo F. Souza Student Leadership Center, which hosted the group. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Charles Nies shared his experience as a first-generation college student and discussed the concept of leading through change.

The visit also included a chance to hear from UC Merced students who described the transition to college life, their involvement in activities, and how they’ve learned to manage their time and responsibilities.

Tamalyn Ya, a senior studying applied mathematical sciences, talked about her experience as a Merced local who chose to attend UC Merced.

"Sharing my journey with fellow students from Merced County was like a breath of fresh air,” Ya said. “It was nice to reflect on how I got to where I am today and to hear about all of their personal dreams and aspirations. It left me in awe, while also feeling nostalgic as it brought me back to when I was in their shoes."

To read more, see the full article!