A Tribute to Ordinary Achievers Achieving the Extraordinary

For some, career growth means navigating a military transition while settling a family. For others, it's a mid-career pivot sparked by a personal experience, a proactive step taken before graduation, a reinvention built night by night alongside a full-time job, or an international study experience that opens doors to a new career. At UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, students from all walks of life find the flexibility and real-world preparation to move forward — without putting life on hold.

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A long-standing interest in genetics and health care, combined with early exposure to the field, set Ammerica Barraza Saucedo on the path toward genetic counseling. Through the UC San Diego Extended Studies Genetic Counseling Assistant Program, she gained skills, practical knowledge, and connections that helped her secure a role as a genetic counseling assistant while preparing for graduate study.

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As Noah Serigny approached retirement from the U.S. Navy, he wanted practical skills to stay competitive in his next chapter. The UC San Diego Extended Studies Occupational Health and Safety certificate program gave him the tools to strengthen his qualifications and make a smooth transition to civilian life.

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Watch Anna's story to explore how the flexible, fully online GIS Certificate Program offered by UC San Diego Extended Studies helped her gain real-world experience and job-ready skills that opened doors before she even graduated.

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