Ariana Novela

As a pro bono legal consultant at the Fresno clinic, I provided legal guidance and support to over 100 clients, primarily focusing on workplace discrimination, wage theft, and employment law violations. I worked closely with attorneys to conduct legal research, draft legal documents, and prepare cases for hearings, while ensuring clients understood their rights and options. My role required a high level of empathy, attention to detail, and communication skills, as I helped vulnerable populations navigate complex legal processes. This experience deepened my commitment to social justice and honed my ability to deliver practical, compassionate legal advice under tight deadlines.

As a Division I athlete on Cal's Women's Track and Field team, I developed exceptional time management, discipline, and leadership skills while balancing a rigorous academic schedule with the demands of collegiate athletics. I demonstrated perseverance and teamwork by consistently contributing to team goals, maintaining peak physical and mental performance, and competing at the highest level in NCAA competitions. My experience in this role cultivated resilience, a strong work ethic, and the ability to perform under pressure, all of which have significantly influenced my personal and professional growth.

As a member of the Current Affairs Team for the Latin Leadership Society, my team and I hosted a student panel featuring Nicaraguan graduate students, facilitating discussions on political instability and human rights violations in Nicaragua. Each week, I conducted in-depth research on political, economic, and human rights crises across Latin America, presenting comprehensive reports to the members of the organization to inform and engage members. I also delivered public presentations on critical issues, such as war crimes and violations of human rights in Mexico, raising awareness of these injustices. Additionally, I provided valuable resources and internship opportunities to club members, helping them pursue careers and activism in human rights advocacy.

As an External Affairs Intern for the Latin Pre-Law Society, I played a role in organizing meetings and panels with Berkeley Law students, specifically aimed at supporting and empowering the Latin community at UC Berkeley. I facilitated various events, coordinating logistics and promoting participation to ensure meaningful engagement. Additionally, I conducted outreach efforts to provide fellow undergraduates with information about law school pathways, resources, and opportunities in the legal field. This position enhanced my organizational and communication skills while reinforcing my commitment to increasing access to legal education for underrepresented communities.

In my role with UC Berkeley's Sports Management and Events team, I assisted in the planning and execution of NCAA athletic events, ensuring a seamless experience for athletes, staff, and attendees. I collaborated with various stakeholders, including coaches, athletes, and vendors, to coordinate logistics, manage schedules, and oversee event operations. My responsibilities included marketing and promoting events, facilitating communication between teams, and addressing on-site challenges to ensure successful execution. This experience honed my organizational, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while deepening my understanding of the sports management industry.

As a Customer Service Representative for the UC Berkeley Recreational Sports Operations team, I provided exceptional front-line support to gym members and visitors, ensuring a welcoming and efficient environment. My responsibilities included greeting patrons, addressing inquiries, and resolving concerns related to gym facilities and services. I also assisted with membership registrations and class sign-ups, maintaining accurate records and providing information about fitness programs and events. This role enhanced my communication and interpersonal skills while fostering a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and community engagement.

As the Creative Director for Diaspora, I led the vision and development of content that highlights the experiences, culture, and achievements of the Black community at UC Berkeley. I managed a diverse team of writers, designers, and photographers to produce engaging articles, visual stories, and multimedia projects that resonate with our audience. My role involved brainstorming creative concepts, overseeing editorial processes, and ensuring the magazine's alignment with our mission of promoting cultural awareness and advocacy. This experience sharpened my leadership and project management skills while fostering a deep appreciation for storytelling and community representation.

As a member of the Black Student Athlete Committee, I collaborated with fellow student-athletes to advocate for equity, inclusivity, and representation within the athletic department. I actively participated in initiatives aimed at promoting awareness of issues affecting Black athletes, including mental health resources, academic support, and community engagement. Through organizing events and discussions, I contributed to creating a supportive environment that encourages dialogue and action around social justice issues in athletics. This experience enhanced my leadership abilities and deepened my commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable community for all student-athletes.

In my role as a Customer Service Worker and Cashier at Roger's Gardens, I provided exceptional service to customers by assisting them with inquiries, product selections, and purchases in a fast-paced retail environment. I managed the cash register, processed transactions efficiently, and maintained accurate financial records. My responsibilities also included creating a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring product displays were well-organized, and supporting inventory management. Through this experience, I developed strong communication and problem-solving skills while enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

As a Team Member at Menchie's Frozen Yogurt, I provided outstanding customer service in a high-energy environment, assisting customers with their orders and ensuring a positive dining experience. My responsibilities included preparing and serving a variety of frozen yogurt flavors and toppings, maintaining cleanliness and organization of the store, and managing the cash register during transactions. I also participated in team efforts to promote store events and specials, fostering a friendly and inviting atmosphere. This position honed my interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.