Post by UC San Diego

“My journey at UC San Diego has been shaped by growth, community, and a desire to help others learn. Coming into college, I was naturally quiet and reserved. For a long time, I preferred observing rather than speaking up, and navigating a large university initially felt intimidating. Over time, I learned that growth often begins before you feel ready. One of the biggest challenges I faced was overcoming my own shyness and discomfort with putting myself out there socially. During my first quarter, I started attending Data Science office hours not only to improve academically but also to become more comfortable engaging with others. What began as small conversations gradually turned into friendships, mentorship opportunities, and a strong sense of belonging. At UC San Diego, I pursued opportunities that combined my technical interests with service and community. As a DSC 40B tutor, an Undergraduate Research Scholar, and a Bonnie Reiss Leading on Climate Fellow, I had the chance to contribute to research, sustainability-focused data projects, and student learning. These experiences taught me that meaningful impact comes not only from solving difficult problems, but also from helping others understand them. One of my proudest accomplishments was tutoring students in Data Science. Watching a student gain confidence after finally understanding a challenging concept reminded me how powerful teaching and mentorship can be. Those moments reinforced my passion for making complex ideas more accessible and creating supportive learning environments. The most valuable lesson I learned at UC San Diego is not to wait until you feel completely ready before taking the next step. Some of my most meaningful experiences began when I felt uncertain or unprepared. By consistently showing up, I found opportunities, friendships, and a community that transformed UC San Diego into a second home. As I continue my journey at Columbia University pursuing a master's degree in computer science, I hope to carry that same spirit of curiosity, growth, and service forward.” – Fong Clement Vo (he/him), Data Science Major, Class of 2026 #TritonStories #UCSD2026 #UCSDAlumni #UCSanDiego #UCSD