Andre Calibuso

Andre had initially hoped to major in computer science, but now believes that it was a blessing in disguise when that became no longer an option. It led him to discover the world of design and he is inspired by the concept of creating products that better the lives of others.

Like many other high achievers, Andre struggled to “separate my identity as a person and identity as a student.” While enrolled in UC San Diego’s Sixth College, he has found greater life balance among academics, work and a social life. He has also learned that he needs to work in an area that allows for creative expression. By majoring in design, he has found a way to channel his love of video games, writing and watching anime into a potential career path.

Andre grew up in California’s Central Valley, and is acutely aware that “access to resources and opportunities available to community members are intrinsically tied to the physical location of the community,” and that young people in more rural areas often have fewer resources and opportunities. That experience has driven his desire to give back. Appropriately, he currently works at the Student Promoted Access Center for Education and Service, where he plans and coordinates activities for high school seniors who come from under-resourced high schools. This involves coordinating with the university’s resource centers, administration, and student organizations to plan and execute the program’s workshops and venues. Previously he worked as an Instructional Assistant in the Cognitive Science Department.

He has also volunteered with the Experience UC San Diego Program, where he mentored and gave tours to high school seniors. Before that he was actively involved in the Kaibigang Pilipin Cultural Celebration.

He has become passionate about design, and his career goal is to focus on UX Design, which means applying one’s creative and analytical skills in a manner that provides meaningful experiences for users. Hopefully he will be able to find personal fulfillment doing the creative design work he loves while at the same time creating products that users like and enjoy.