Counselor/ Coordinator
Martha Contreras
Coordinator/Counselor
Martha has been with UCI FYRE for the last 10 months! She graduated from Cal State Fullerton, is originally from Los Angeles, and is passionate about students’ success!
Laura Zepeda
Coordinator
Laura is a proud first-generation college graduate with a bachelor of Arts in Sociology from UC Santa Barbara. She is originally from Salinas, CA and is excited to serve as the TSC and FYRE Coordinator at UCI!
Advice: “UCI offers so many opportunities to grow and get out of your comfort zone. Be open to new ideas, experiences, and endless possibilities. The step into the unknown is worth it!”
FYRE Peer Mentors
Carolina Llerenas
Peer mentor
Welcome everyone! My name is Carolina, I’m a 3rd year Psych major. I’m super excited for the opportunity of working with this community & providing you all with the support & guidance needed to help you navigate college and life overall.
Advice: “Some things will take time, be patient with yourself”
May Souvandara
Peer Mentor
Welcome FYRE scholars! My name is May, I am a 3rd year Sociology major. A bit about myself is that I love softball and music. As a Peer Mentor for the FYRE program, I hope to be able to offer support to anyone in need, as the FYRE program at UCI has done for me.
Advice: “Never be afraid to ask questions”
Inez Rosales
Peer mentor
Hello FYRE scholars! I’m Inez and I am a political science major with a minor in urban studies! I am a peer mentor for the program and am happy to provide support as others have done for me. We hope to provide a safe space for everyone!
Advice: “Life is a marathon, not a race :)”
Jorge Sanchez
Peer Mentor
Hi! I’m Jorge and I’m an incoming 2nd year with a major in history. My hometown is Riverside, CA, and a fun fact about me is that I taught myself how to drive!
Advice: “Embrace challenges and learn from your failures.”