Issue #71 Fall 2023 - December

UC San Diego Intertribal Resource Center



Fall Hours, Finals Week: Mon-Thurs. 10:00am - 3:00pm

Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions, concerns, or just to say hi!



itrc@ucsd.edu | itrc.ucsd.edu

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ITRC Space Update

The Intertribal Resource Center recently got new furniture. In addition, beautiful art created by Johnny Bear Contreras (San Pasqual Band of the Kumeyaay Nation) in on display in our center. Come visit us in our new space (Student Services Building Room 187, First Floor) soon!

Finals Week Hours

During Finals Weeks, the ITRC will be open Monday, December 11th to Thursday, December 14th from 10am-3pm. Come study, relax, get a snack, or just say hi. Good luck on your finals, Native Tritons, and have a great holiday break!

Ask A Native Triton

Each month, we profile one of our amazing Native American students at UC San Diego. In addition, this year we are expanding to include Native American staff and faculty! If you would like to nominate a Native American student, staff, or faculty at UC San Diego for us to feature, you can email us at itrc@ucsd.edu.

The ITRC is proud to introduce...

Jared Helms

Tribal Affiliation: Member of the Cherokee Nation

Major: Human Biology

Year: 4th Year

Hometown: Carlsbad, CA

1. What is some of the best advice you've ever been given as a Native student?

The best advice I’ve ever received as a Native student came to me during my time at the recent AISES conference. A medical doctor had given a lecture centered on the importance of resilience for indigenous students pursuing a career in medicine. The take-away message was to persist in the face of difficulties and failures that we all face, and instead to focus on the potential and opportunities of the future.  

2. What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I love playing and listening to music. I’ve always had a passion for playing guitar, and I’ve recently begun learning piano. 

3. How do you want to use your UCSD degree after graduation?

After I graduate from UCSD, I plan to use my degree to pursue further education through a Master’s program in public health before applying to medical school. I hope to one day have a part in furthering medical care for our Native communities in San Diego county.

Beaded Lanyard Workshop

On Monday, November 27th, the Intertribal Resource Center hosted a beading workshop led by our Facilities, Operations, and Student Programs Coordinator - Michaela (Lipan Apache). Students and staff had the opportunity to make a wristlet or a lanyard in a variety of color options. Thank you to our participants! Don't forget to tag @UCSD_ITRC if you post your completed project on Instagram.

Meet & Greet Lunch with Ethan L. Banegas, M.A.

Also on Monday, November 27th, our inaugural Culture Bearer In-Residence, Ethan L. Banegas (Kumeyaay, Payómkawichum, and Kuupangaxwichem), visited the Intertribal Resource Center for a Meet & Greet Lunch with staff and students. We encourage everyone to keep an eye out for future events led by Ethan!

Finals Refuel

On Monday, December 4th, the Intertribal Resource Center hosted our Fall Quarter Finals Refuel event. Students were able to pop in and get bagels, coffee, and finals grab bags, which were specially curated to foster students' well-being during exams. We were able to see a lot of familiar faces and it was great to reconnect with everyone. Good luck on your finals, Native Tritons!

Native Celebrations

We want to celebrate with you!

Share your birthday, tell us about a special accomplishment, or recognize another Native Triton!

Click below to share the love!

Native American Student Organizations

Interested in Native American culture, issues and community? Come check out our student organizations...

Contact Us:

UC San Diego Intertribal Resource Center | (858) 822-0048 | itrc@ucsd.edu

1st floor of the Student Services Center in SSC Room #187