From Central Valley, CA, Ruby Rodriguez-Barajas never planned to attend PUC. In her words, she “had no idea there was a school up in the mountains” until a former middle school teacher brought her up in conversation with PUC President Ralph Trecartin at a camp meeting. Although Ruby was set to attend Fresno State, she took President Trecartin’s suggestion to tour PUC. 

“I was nervous because I knew it meant doing something completely outside of my comfort zone,” shared Ruby. “However, I also felt like this might be a calling and that I should give it a chance. I decided to come up to Angwin, tour the campus, and see what I thought. Once I arrived, I loved every bit of it. What started as an unexpected opportunity eventually became the place I chose to continue my education and pursue my degree in psychology.”

Ruby is now a junior majoring in psychology and minoring in early education. “I love the opportunities that my program provides, like WPA, which allows us to attend and even present research projects to other schools and people. It gives us valuable experience, helps us build confidence, and allows us to gain exposure outside of our campus,” she shared. “I also really love the community and the close bonds between students and professors. I am currently the secretary for the Psychology and Social Work Club, which has been a great opportunity to meet other students in my program and get to know our professors better. Just to give our club a little shout-out, consider checking us out and joining us for some of our fun events!”

What has been your favorite class or professor so far?

My favorite class this quarter so far has been Physiology with Professor Arroyo. I love learning about the brain, even though it can be complex. The brain has always intrigued me since I was a kid. I’ve always wondered what goes on inside someone’s head and how all the different structures and parts work together to help us talk, breathe, walk, and do the things we do every day. The class has been especially fun because we got to dissect a sheep’s brain, see the different parts physically, and learn what each one does. It amazes me to see how perfectly God created us. 

Where is your favorite place on campus? 

My favorite place on campus is my room. I love how comfortable and cozy it feels. It’s my own little safe space where I can relax, watch movies, study, and play my ukulele. I enjoy having a place where I can be myself, unwind, and take a break from everything. 

What has been an unexpected thing you’ve learned since being at PUC?

The most unexpected thing I’ve learned since being at PUC is the tortilla tradition at graduations here. I was so shocked by it, and even now, I still don’t know why they do it. 

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers community? 

My favorite thing about being part of the Pioneer community is the people. I love that PUC has such a diverse community, with so many different personalities, backgrounds, and experiences. There are always new people to meet and connect with. Even if you don’t feel like you fit in at first, you’ll eventually find your people and build friendships that make you feel like you belong. 

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

I would love to travel somewhere with beautiful beaches, maybe even discover some hidden ones in Fiji. I have always loved going to the beach, even as a kid. Being by the ocean brings me peace, and I have so many good memories of spending time at the beach with my family and friends. I would love to create even more memories while exploring new places. 

What is something you’re passionate about? 

I am passionate about mental health and being there for people when they need someone to listen. Whether it is a family member, a friend, my partner, or someone I’ve just met, I want people to feel they have someone they can turn to without judgment. 

With my degree, I hope to be a safe place for others to share what they are going through and remind them they don’t have to face everything alone. I know that asking for help and opening up about your struggles can be difficult. Sometimes, simply having someone who listens and understands can make a difference. I want to be that person for others, to encourage them, help them rebuild themselves during difficult times, and remind them that there is always hope. My passion is helping people heal, grow, and live the fulfilling life they deserve. 

Where is your favorite restaurant in the Napa Valley? What is your order recommendation? 

My favorite restaurant is downtown at Villa Corona Cocina Mexicana. The food is delicious; they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. My favorite go-to order is a carne asada burrito. 

Describe your perfect weekend at PUC.

My perfect weekend at PUC would be sleeping in, deep-cleaning my room, watching movies, and calling my boyfriend throughout the day. I also love taking late-night walks around the track or listening to music at the water fountain.