This week’s campus celebrity is none other than Ashley Escobar! For those of you who have not had the pleasure of meeting her, she is the most fun, genuine, and environmentally friendly RA here at USD.
Name: Ashley Escobar
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
Year at USD: Senior
Major: Environmental Studies
What you are involved in at USD?
I am a member of Pi Phi, an intern at the Office of Sustainability, a part of Student Outreach and Recruitment, and a Residential Assistant. The Office of Sustainability focuses on “be blue and go green!” I am the intern for the Green Office Certification, so I go to different offices on campus and see if they are recycling, and if they know about the programs we offer.
What is your most favorite/least favorite thing about being an RA?
The best thing, honestly, is all of the amazing people I get to meet. I meet residents and other RA’s that I would have never met if it weren’t for being an RA. We just never would have crossed paths. I am so thankful for being able to meet so many new people. My least favorite thing is having to document. It is part of my job, but I hate it. I always try and turn it into a positive learning experience, because we all make mistakes, it’s part of college!
Where is your favorite place that you have traveled to?
This past summer I traveled to India, and I went to London the summer before. I loved both India and London for different reasons, and the best part of both of my trips was immersing myself in the different cultures. India’s culture shock was such a great thing to experience. I got to meet the Dalai Lama. I was in his house! When will I ever be able to experience that again in my lifetime? Getting to know other students from USD and explore these countries with them made me so much more thankful for everything I have. Looking back, my experiences have made me put my stress, especially now during midterms, into perspective. I met so many people who don’t even have the opportunity to get an education.
What is your favorite thing about San Diego?
The weather! But right now it’s a little hot! If I’m having a stressful day, I can just walk outside and watch the sunset overlooking the water. It’s incredible. Another thing I love is the different people I’ve gotten to meet here in San Diego. Even though the people are not necessarily from here, USD has given me the opportunity to make such strong bonds throughout college.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have never been to Mexico. I’ve lived in Texas my whole life, and now in San Diego!
Do you plan to go soon?
I am trying to go on one of the service trips, but planning has been difficult lately!
What is your favorite quote?
“Life is actually really simple, but we insist on making it complicated” – Confucius. We think our problems are these huge issues and we let them get in the way of life and not being able to enjoy every moment that we have. We all have our ups and downs but we are all here living; let’s make the most of it!
What would you do if you won the lottery?
First, pay off school and put aside money for graduate school—in London! Second, I would treat my mom to her dream vacation. She has done so much for me that the least I can do is something special for her. After that, I would help everyone that I can, even if it was only in small ways.
How would you describe yourself?
I am a very positive person. I am sometimes motherly. I am a great listener, and very genuine. If I am talking to you, you are my main focus. I try to be genuine all the time!
What super power would you want to have?
Flying. Because I want to travel the world, and if I could fly I would automatically be able to do that!
What is your dream job?
Making theatre and all of their materials green. Changing the whole system so they do not waste any paper.
What are your plans for after USD?
I would want to do a service year in the U.S., so I am able to make a change, but in our own country and our own backyard. Then I would love to go to graduate school in London.
What is advice you would like to give to other students at USD?
I hope that people make the most of their time here. So many people told me that before my senior year, but it does fly by and you wont realize it. Just enjoy your time and take advantage of it all. Everything is a learning experience. You learn more about yourself, other people, and the world around you. See it with the brightest light you can.
Thank you Ashley. We can all take advice from you about looking at each day as a new and exciting experience, and making the most of our time here at USD!