Aria Gasca

Aria is a senior from Los Angeles, California, double majoring in public health and gender and sexuality studies at Tulane University. Throughout her time at Tulane, she has become deeply involved in campus life, serving with Tulane Emergency Medical Services (TEMS), participating in Alpha Kappa Psi, contributing to the Newcomb Leaders program and advocating for her community as both a  community engagement advocate and the public relations ambassador for Latinas Unidas.

Her journey at Tulane, however, did not begin with immediate confidence. During her first year, Aria struggled to find her place and considered transferring. It was the mentorship and sense of belonging she found through one of the organizations she joined that ultimately convinced her to stay. That experience transformed her college career and inspired a lasting commitment to helping others. Today, she is passionate about paying that support forward by mentoring and welcoming new students who may be unsure about finding their own place at Tulane.

Outside of academics and leadership, Aria enjoys biking around New Orleans, crocheting and experimenting in the kitchen, believing that food has a unique ability to connect people and cultures. A self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast, she has visited more than 50 coffee shops throughout New Orleans and is always on the lookout for her next favorite cup.

Favorite Thing about TU: There is always a way to explore, whether it's a new passion or an academic interest you didn't expect to find. Between the clubs, the events and the people you meet along the way, there's always something going on in and around campus that pushes you to try something new.

Tips for Foundation Scholars: Try everything and get involved, even when it's difficult. Meeting new people and putting yourself out there isn't easy, especially when you're just starting college, but it's important that you do because once you build those bonds and get involved on campus in ways that make a difference, you'll be so glad you did.