Welcome

Hey everyone! My name is Amy Monzon and I'm a Freshman, communications major here at Santa Clara University. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California and can't imagine myself living in any other state. The weather, beaches, food, and the overwhelming amount of things to do are simply irreplaceable. Being from Los Angeles I love the city atmosphere but also being able to escape and find a cool place to hike while driving down Pacific Coast Highway. Moving from Southern to Northern California has been quite a challenge. I was use to the hustle and bustle of being in a city and have now been trying to adapt to a more suburban surrounding while living in Santa Clara. Exploration and finding my interests and new forms of entertainment around campus will be key the next couple of years. Northern California residents assure me of the abundant amount of things to do, but I have yet to be convinced that Northern California is better than Southern California. 

*Port in Great Guana Cay, Bahamas*

Traveling and trying new things in new places are some of my favorite things to do. So far my absolute favorite place I've ever visited was Great Guana Cay in the Bahamas. I visited this past summer and immediately fell in love with the people and the food. I probably ate some kind of lobster or seafood everyday; it was incredible. We would travel from the island we were staying at to other nearby islands to participate in a wide range of activities. I tried lobster fishing, fed pigs on the shore, went snorkeling, and even jumped off the top levels of boats in the middle of the ocean. Overall some of my most memorable experiences have been times where I was challenged and forced out of my comfort zone in some way. Taking these risks and putting myself out there has really paid off and I cant wait to see what new adventures life has in stored for me. 

*Marymount High School, Los Angeles*

 Another time I was challenged but was able to grow from my experiences was high school. I attended an all-girls Catholic school, Marymount High School; because of my life-changing experience at that institution I decided to attend SCU. High school not only offered incredible academic opportunities, but I don't think I would be the person I am today if it wasn't for all my extracurricular involvement. From being part of the associated student body, playing golf and basketball, creating a conference for middle school girls from all over Los Angeles, and doing community service; high school really did change me. I loved being involved, discovering what type of leader I was, and from then helping make a difference in my community. I hope to achieve that during my college years as well. 

SCU is a school that focuses on the importance of community. One of the main reasons I decided to take the emerging leaders class was to learn new ways of being involved to make a difference in my new community. Working together with others and being my own kind of leader have become two important aspects of my life. Practicing those skills now and being able to take them out into the real world after graduation; I know will benefit any career path I choose to take on. I'm really excited to see what's in store for me during my time here and hopefully the many things I can contribute to making a difference.