Moonlight Scholars

Giovanni Munoz

FIRST-YEAR, FINANCE

Myiia Lee

FIRST-YEAR, ACCOUNTING

Perla Sierra Aguirre

FIRST-YEAR, THEOLOGY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES

My name is Perla Sierra Aguirre, and I am a first-year student at Saint Mary’s College. I was born in Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico, and migrated to Union City, California, when I was seven years old. I am majoring in Theology and Religious Studies and plan to pursue a single-subject teaching credential to teach at the high school level. Some of my interests include playing soccer, learning about my faith, and spending time with the people I love.

Yamilet Lepe Garcia

FIRST-YEAR, SPANISH AND LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES

My name is Yamilet Lepe Garcia, and I am a first-year student at Saint Mary’s College of California. I am the eldest out of four kids, and a daughter to immigrant parents. I was born and raised in Napa Valley, CA. I am Mexican-American and the first in my family to be able to pursue a higher education. I am a Spanish and Latin American studies major with a minor in Theology. I plan to receive my teaching credential and BILA certification, in hopes of becoming a high school teacher. Some of my interests include singing, theatre, and helping others. I am currently working at the Intercultural Center as a social justice advocate and serve as a member of the executive team for La Hermandad on campus.

Alexis Gutierrez Acosta

FORTH-YEAR, ACCOUNTING

My name is Alexis Gutierrez Acosta and I am a senior at Saint Mary's College of California. I am majoring in Accounting and minoring in Finance. I was born in the east bay, and I have been raised in Pittsburg California. I like playing sports with friends. I like spending time in nature and looking at nature paintings. My favorite food is Mexican food and Chinese food. One of my goals in life is to travel the world. My current top locations are Italy, France, and Japan. 

Antonio Ponce

FOURTH-YEAR, ACCOUNTING

My name is Antonio Ponce, and I’m a senior at Saint Mary’s College of California, double majoring in Accounting and Business Administration with a minor in Finance. I grew up in San Martin, a small town about 20 minutes south of San Jose. I currently serve as a Lead Peer Mentor in the High Potential Program, where I get to support and build relationships with students from similar backgrounds as mine. Outside of school, I’m a big Warriors and 49ers fan, and I enjoy watching and training in combat sports like boxing and MMA. After graduation, I plan to become a financial advisor and help others take control of their financial futures.

Ayz Gómez

FOURTH-YEAR, PSYCHOLOGY & SPANISH

Hi, my name is Ayz Gómez. I'm a 4th year student studying Psychology and Spanish and I'm from San José, California. I like reading fantasy books, having movie nights, and spending time with family and friends. When I graduate, I would like to work with other first generation students and provide them with the support and community that the High Potential Program has given me during my time at Saint Mary's. 

Kaylin Holliman

FOURTH-YEAR, ETHNIC STUDIES & JUSTICE, COMMUNITY AND LEADERSHIP

Hello, my name is Kaylin Holliman and I am a senior at Saint Mary’s College of California! I was born and raised in Sacramento California and I attended Christian Brothers High School which is also a Lasallian institution. My major is Music (Vocal Concentration) and I am double minoring in Ethnic Studies and Justice, Community, and Leadership. It has always been my passion to become a performer in its full variety as a singer, actress, dancer and so on. Ever since I was 2 years old I have been singing and performing on stage and have been blessed to continue this as my passion and future career. It is an absolute honor and privilege to have been nominated and accepted for this award and I am so blessed and thankful to receive it. 

Nuvia Alvarez

FOURTH-YEAR, PSYCHOLOGY (HONORARY MOONLIGHT SCHOLAR)

Hello! My name is Nuvia Alvarez, and I am a fourth-year student at Saint Mary's. I am majoring in Psychology with a focus in Clinical and Counseling and minoring in Sociology. I have a passion for mental health and lifting the stigma around receiving help in low-income communities. I also serve as a Resident Advisor on campus and a Peer Mentor with the High Potential Program.