Staff Blog: Justin Soriano

Name: Justin Soriano.

Year at UCLA: 2^nd Year
Major: Mechanical Engineering
SPACE Site: Belmont High School
Position in SPACE: 1^st year Peer Advisor.

Looking back from SPACE summer training until now, I realized how much I’ve changed.  

I initially joined SPACE because the community work I did in high school was lacking in my college experience. The reasons why I joined SPACE, however, are totally different from the many reasons why I chose to stay.

I chose to join SPACE because I thought it was merely a high school tutoring program and not much more. I chose to stay in SPACE because I know now that it is much more—it is a space where my my students and I learn from each other together and where we both realize the power and potential we thought we never had.

In one of my most meaningful one-on-ones with a student, I challenged him to be a student leader at his school and outreach to students to come to SPACE. In response, he challenged me to learn more about Pilipino history and Pilipino culture—but most importantly, he challenged me to question why it is even important to even learn about my own Pilipino heritage.

I had no idea SPACE would be such a life-changing experience.

SPACE is not just about tutoring and getting high school students into college like I initially thought. It’s about so much more. Since summer I have learned so much about my surrounding community, my fellow staff members, my Filipino culture, and myself.
(Justin and fellow SPACE Staff Members during SPACE Retreat)

SPACE has really challenged me to step out of my comfort zone. I used to be a shy and private person and afraid to open up to people.   Now I feel I’m on my way to become the individual I’ve been wanting to be: honest, open, and engaging.

 
(Justin facilitating at SPACE retreat)

The skills I have gained as a facilitator, a peer advisor, and a general SPACE staff member has improved the way I interact with other people. I have become a better listener and a critical thinker who is open and honest.