Name: Catherine “Cat” Vallejo
Hometown: Victorville, CA
Major: Community Psychology & Education
Languages: English & Tagalog
Year: 2020
What made you choose to go to school in Washington instead of California?
While growing up, I always thought I would ended up staying in the sunny Southern California and attend college in my home state. It was actually thanks to my favorite cousins that live in Washington that helped me decide that I wanted to go to school out of state. They showed me around Washington and we took a tour of UWB. I really fell in love with the feeling of being in a new place and Washington is such a beautiful state.
What was the hardest part about moving from California to Washington?
Although all my new friends and opportunities in Washington have been more than I could ever imagine, I really do miss my simple life with my family. Everything was so unfamiliar to me as an out of state student. My family is what I miss most about California.
What is your favorite part about Washington and California?
My favorite part about California is how tough it is. Learning to drive in Southern California made it easier for me get to know the area and drive around in Washington. For Washington, I love how friendly everyone is. Compared to California, when I am making purchases at the store, the cashiers here in Washington actually take the time to have a friendly conversation with you. I never really experienced or have seen this while growing up in California.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation I plan on going to graduate school to further my education even more. I am majoring in Community Psychology with a minor in Education in order to become a high school counselor. When I get these two things checked off at UWB, I will have to earn a Master’s Degree and start my dream career as an educator for adolescents.
What is your favorite place to go in Washington and in California?
In California I love my home that I grew up in and my dance studio. Well known places in California that I love visiting include, LACMA, Santa Monica, and anywhere in Orange County. Besides UWB and anywhere with my best friend, my favorite places in Washington are anywhere where I can go on a nice hike or Jaunita Beach Park.
Do you have some advice for students thinking of going out of state for college?
One of the major reasons why I chose to attend college in Washington over various other states is because I have family in Washington. I really did have a desire to explore and be an out of state student, however, choosing New York for example, would mean that I would not have a family nearby. If you are like me, having family as a valuable treasure in life, then I would say to really consider if going out of state is really for you. It worked out for me because I had the chance to fulfill my desire to go out of state, while still having a piece of home because I have family here in Washington. If I did not have my cousins here, I would either have to spend Thanksgiving alone, or spend it at one of my friends’ family.