Intern Welcome

Hello All,

My name is Makayla Wilson (she/her/hers), and I am a first-generation student and fourth-year Sociology major with a minor in Education. I am passionate about student affairs and look forward to continuing this work alongside experienced professionals from whom I can learn from, while striving to create meaningful institutional change on campus.

I was raised in Hawthorne, California, in a single-parent, low-income household, as the youngest sibling to my older sister. Beyond my immediate family, I embrace many roles such as being a Titi, goddaughter, cousin, friend, mentor, and more. With a 24-year age gap between my sister and me, I had the privilege of her guidance throughout my educational journey. That experience has inspired me to be a resource for those who may not have a blueprint to navigate higher education.

My passion for student affairs began as a Representative-at-Large at San Miguel Residence Hall (2022–2023) and grew through my roles as a two-year Resident Assistant in San Miguel and San Joaquin Villages, a S.E.A.L. Intern, an EOP ResHall Peer Mentor, and a NUFP Fellow. These experiences introduced me to a field I eventually fell in love with—a field grounded in human-centered work. Each role brought unique lessons and deepened my commitment to advocating for the diverse communities that make up UCSB.

Outside of academics, I enjoy all things food-related, envisioning and designing my dream soccer complex, traveling, trying new recipes, and spending quality time with loved ones. My long-term goal is to become a student affairs professional and ultimately serve as a chancellor or dean of student activities, life, or a related area that calls to my interests.

Through the Goodspeed Internship, I aim to explore the intersection of equity and justice, empowering students to use their voices to advocate for change while navigating political and institutional challenges. I am eager to learn from and work alongside student affairs professionals as an advocate for the entire undergraduate student body.