Class of 2020 Graduates Share Their Amazing Stories

Four exceptional USD graduates were recently profiled by Univision, and shared powerful, personal stories of what their education means to them. Blanca Hernandez (BA, Business and Economics), Jesse Magana (BA, Sociology), Ivan Martinez-Heredia (MA, School Counseling) and Johana Bermudez (Doctorate of Nursing Practice) embody the Torero spirit, and we couldn't be more proud of the successes they've achieved, and will continue to achieve in the future!

When she first visited campus and saw the beautiful bell tower of The Immaculata, Blanca Hernandez felt at home. She was able to attend USD in part due to the Comité México Scholarship — a scholarship created by alumni, parents and friends for students of Mexican descent.

As a sociology major, Jesse Magaña was able to explore his own Latinx culture in a deep way. A proud first-generation student, Magaña realizes that he stands on the shoulders of others who made it possible.

Ivan Martinez-Heredia knows it takes sacrifice and hard work to pursue higher education. With an MA in School Counseling from the School of Leadership and Education Sciences, he's ready to make a difference in young people's lives.

Johana Bermudez was a Navy nurse before she decided to pursue a doctorate in nursing at the University of San Diego. After many sacrifices, she is now ready to reap the rewards of her effort.