Kristel Cerritos

Something About Me

Originally from South Central Los Angeles, I am presently pursuing my BA at UCSB with a double major in Environmental Studies and Sociology. After taking a few introductory courses in Environmental Studies, I came to appreciate its interdisciplinary approach to solving complicated problems, such as environmental injustice and acknowledging the racism incorporated within these issues. I have increasingly been drawn to the study of environmental justice. The lens it offers, focusing on the ways that historical events have led to the continued oppression of minorities in society as well as the ways we can combat these struggles. Coming to an area like Santa Barbara, one surrounded by the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, with many hiking trails and parks was something I could never have experienced back home. South Central is an area that has been historically neglected, as it is primarily populated with black and latino communities, who face financial hardships. I hope to devote my career to working for underserved communities in order to promote more sustainable lifestyles by advocating for the implementation of more parks, providing farmers markets, and strengthening their abilities to make their voices heard in the political space.  I held my position as a Basic Needs Advisor and Calfresh advocate at UCSB’s Basic Needs Center for one year, where I had the opportunity to assist my fellow peers in situations where they are in need of anything. My team and I strove to combat financial, food, and housing insecurities to the best of our ability in hopes to help those in need. I’m grateful that the position I had let me directly assist and work for others and I hope to expand my work back to my community at a larger scale.