Current Ambassadors

I am from Santa Maria, CA, which is located about an hour and a half north of Westmont. All of my life, I have attended large public schools. When considering college, one challenge I encountered was the lack of guidance from teachers and counselors at my high school. I had to figure most stuff out on my own, especially being a first-generation student. From where to find out about SAT testing to knowing how to apply for scholarships, I was lost. I am thankful for websites like College Board and Khan Academy for helping me figure things out. At my school we had a college fair that Westmont attended. I was impressed with how educated and personable their students were. I came to find out my Dad used to help drive their track team around the country. I chose Westmont because I wanted to go to a smaller school that would feel like a community, and where I could express my religion as well as integrate it into my education. Also, who could turn down the beautiful Santa Barbara beaches?!

I am planning on majoring in Economics and Business and minoring in Ethnic Studies so that I can really dig into how humans affect the economy. In whatever career I pursue, I want to help my community become a better place. I am definitely looking forward to my religious studies courses, and am excited to get to learn about my faith and how I can get even closer to our amazing God. Another thing I'm looking forward to is joining the Westmont Cheer team. I have cheered for six years and I cannot wait to start cheering for Westmont! I am also joining the Horizon newspaper team as a photographer and can't wait to start taking pictures. Overall, while at Westmont, I am excited to meet everyone and learn how to better myself through the incredible liberal arts education as well as the Liberal Arts Ambassadors program, not only furthering my education, but furthering my faith. 

Hello, I'm Eric! I am from Oxnard, CA, which is a coastal city between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. I have attended private Catholic and Christian schools all of my life, which has allowed me to grow both spiritually and intellectually in a small, close community. I learned about Westmont by chance and initially it was not my first choice. But once I visited campus and spent a day at Westmont, I knew this is where I belonged. 

As a first-generation college student, I was highly encouraged to pursue higher education. Thankfully I received avid support from both my parents and the faculty at my high school, which motivated me to push harder and strive to do my best. From there, I developed an interest in biology, as I was captivated by the beauty of nature and the way it functions. It was a passion I discovered when I visited Zion National Park, which opened my eyes to complex ecosystems and how every organism fills a niche role. I plan to continue my passion for the subject here at Westmont with the hope of joining the Sparkman lab and exploring other opportunities that arise.

When I'm not thinking about biology, I am an avid reader. I specifically enjoy science fiction and fantasy novels, like The Hunger Games, Dune, Scythe, and others. I find them to be a good way to unwind and let my mind run free, as well as explore different ideas and concepts. Nonetheless, I truly look forward to the transformative experience I'll have here at Westmont!

I grew up in Redding, CA, as the youngest of 7 children. Growing up I developed a passion for storytelling and how it builds meaningful connections across generations and people. In high school, this gave me a better appreciation for language and literature. The drive that I have towards English as a whole has also grown a desire to teach: being a teacher will allow me to guide the next generation to find their passion in a world that always changes—perhaps finding a brief escape from a world that can sometimes feel limiting and stifling. I am excited to take my passion and make it come alive at Westmont as I continue to delve into how literature develops relationships and brings different communities together. 

I came to Westmont because of the intentional integration of education, community and spiritual development. Having grown up in the public school system, I am grateful for the change of pace: a place to study that mindfully integrates faith and learning. High school was a balancing act of academic, social, personal, community and spiritual responsibilities across religious and secular circles. During my time at Westmont I hope to actively participate in the community life and spiritual growth that Westmont emphasizes. I intend to become involved in the Asian Student Association, not only as a member of the club but also as part of a family that strives to encourage one another. I hope to find better balance and focus on my academic goals and spiritual development, and through it all develop lifelong relationships.

Hey! I am Sierra from Los Angeles, California. I come from a big family of home cooks who love hosting game nights and elaborate family dinner parties. Besides constantly testing new recipes in the kitchen, I love playing with my dogs, upcycling clothes, jamming out to music, and going for long walks in nature. I am also very passionate about mental health advocacy and educational equity. 

As a first generation college student, I did not know what to expect when stepping on campus. I am constantly discovering new and exciting aspects of the college experience everyday. I am currently studying psychology in hopes of becoming a Clinical Neuropsychologist, but I am also interested in epigenetics and Spanish! My many passions and interests are why I chose Westmont College in the first place. I was seeking an institution that would not only allow me to explore many different fields of study, but one that would also push me to explore fields which intimidate me, or ones that I never knew even existed! Here I feel challenged and supported by my peers and professors to be the best, most academically adventurous student I can possibly be.

Outside of the classroom, I am proud to be a member of Westmont’s Black Student Union. In the future I am looking forward to studying abroad, attending retreats, joining a research team, and developing myself intellectually, socially, and spiritually. Westmont has so much to offer and I feel immensely blessed to be a part of an open minded, balanced, and eager community here on campus!