Melissa Estrada

Hi Aggies!

My name is Melissa Estrada, and I am a third-year student majoring in Political Science - Public Service. I am running to be your next ASUCD Senator because I believe student government should do more than represent students. It should actively work to connect them with resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive.

I am committed to making the UC Davis experience more accessible, inclusive, and engaging for all students. I have seen firsthand how a lack of resources, or even awareness of the resources available, can create barriers to students' academic and professional growth. Students should be able to focus on their education and explore their interests without missing out on opportunities simply because they do not know where to find them.

Bridging gaps means addressing barriers that affect students' well-being and access to essential resources. I promise to advocate for greater awareness of basic-needs services, including ASUCD Pantry, and champion student mental health initiatives that make support more accessible. I also believe reliable transportation is essential to student life, and I will advocate for improvements to Unitrans while working to protect routes students depend on. Additionally, I want student organizations to have equitable access to funding so they can host events, serve their members, and contribute to our campus community.

Broadening Horizons means creating more opportunities for students to grow, connect, and participate in shaping their university experience. I will advocate for professional development opportunities that help students prepare for life after graduation, as well as campus events that celebrate our diverse community. I also believe civic engagement should be more accessible. Through increased social media outreach and advertising, I will work to make students more aware of ASUCD initiatives, campus issues, elections, and opportunities to make their voices heard.

I believe effective student representation begins with listening. As your senator, I promise to take student concerns seriously, communicate transparently, and advocate for meaningful improvements. While progress takes collaboration and persistence, I am committed to being an engaged representative who works to ensure student voices remain central to ASUCD decisions.