Leslie is a first-generation native of LA, aspiring to be the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree in Communication in Culture and Public Affairs, along with a Mediation Certificate. Her goal is to work in human resources or a non-profit to resolve internal conflicts and support her community. Throughout her academic journey, Leslie has worked various jobs—student worker, retail employee, Uber Eats driver, night manager, and caregiver—to fund her education and household expenses. Overcoming homelessness in her early 20s, she utilized resources like transitional housing and scholarships to find independence and stay in school. Leslie looks forward to graduating in Fall 2025 and hopes to contribute to the workforce in the nonprofit sector.