During Karime Blanco’s senior year, college seemed out of reach. The Berkeley native was accepted to just about every university she applied to, but found herself the victim of sticker shock. Then she received her award letter from UC Merced, and her situation brightened.
“They gave me the most money,” Blanco said. “It was just the best economic decision for me and my family.”
Her parents, Juan Carlos and Maura, immigrated to California from Mexico when they were in their early 20s. Juan Carlos manufactures countertops, and Maura is a secretary. Their daughter’s financial aid package includes a combination of need- and merit-based scholarships and grants.
Blanco, the younger of two children, is the first in her family to pursue higher education - a source of pride.
“They brag - a lot,” she said, adding that many extended relatives have already brought their children to visit her suite in Tulare Hall. “The kids love it; they can see themselves in my shoes when they are older.”
Living on campus is a great experience, Blanco said. She and her roommate have become fast friends, though they’;ve only known each other since August.
“We get along really well; we have some of the same tendencies,” she said. “The housing staff did a great job of pairing us up.”
The friends enjoy picnics on the recreational field near their suite - chips and PB&J under the stars - or excursions to Lake Yosemite next to campus to relax in the serene Valley landscape.
Academically, Blanco is having a blast. Undeclared but considering mechanical engineering to prepare for a career in architecture, she’s taking classes in environmental science, nutrition, anthropology and writing.
“Environmental science is my favorite so far,” she said. “Probably because it’s the subject I’m most comfortable with. I don’t feel like I’m lost in it.”
When she’s not in class or hanging out with her roommate, Blanco interns with the podcasting team in the Office of Communications. She hopes to produce her first broadcast within the next week or so.
“It’ll be a welcome to freshmen, complete with tips from upperclassmen,” she said. “I asked around, and even the third-year students said they were interested in podcasts about the freshman experience.”
