Peter Leonido

Peter has overcome financial hardship in order to be admitted to UC San Diego where he has thrived in both academics and service. He describes himself as passionate about “music, basketball, community work, and leadership.” His current endeavors reflect those interests.

On campus he recently concluded a fellowship in the UC San Diego College Corps Changemaker Institute, where he mentored K-12 students and facilitated those enrolled in the AVID College Readiness curriculum. He also was an MLK Day of Service volunteer, where his group did beautification projects at Mission Bay High School. Last year he completed the Equity-Minded Leadership Seminar. His freshman year he was awarded an Associated Students UC San Diego First-Year Fellowship where he managed a $50,000 budget and collaborated with other Fellows to produce five student events, and was awarded Fellow of the Year. He is enrolled in Sixth College.

Peter worked a summer job with Central City Neighborhood Partners, where he facilitated a seven-week program mentoring middle and high school students on college and career readiness, and coordinated a number of field trips. He also assisted in serving underprivileged families with food and other basic necessities.

Peter has found time to pursue his love of music. He is a Musicians’ Club member, and was involved in the 2023 annual Iconic event as both bandleader and performer. He is a tenor section leader and drummer for the Gospel Choir.

As the son of immigrants with serious health issues, it has been challenging to accomplish all of the above, maintain high grades, and fund his education, but Peter has managed it all. His experiences have motivated him to pursue a career in social service. Ultimately he hopes to earn a PhD, but after graduation he plans to work in the non-profit or education sectors to “help people in the communities I come from.”