Alumni Spotlight: Sami Feldman '15

After graduating, I pursued my bachelor's degree in Psychology from UCLA. Alongside my degree, I minored in Civic Engagement, which allowed me to work hands-on with social justice and social change in an interdisciplinary setting. Though these experiences, I was able to intern with the Los Angeles LGBT Center for two years working with homeless and at-risk LGBTQ+ youth, as well as complete a series of research projects with a nonprofit called Meet Each Need with Dignity (MEND). While I loved everything about UCLA, the people, and most of the classes, my favorite part was definitely getting to learn from a hands-on perspective and exploring various societal issues from a deeper perspective. After graduating in 2019, I decided to take some time off to travel and work side-by-side with professors completing various research. I am now in the process of working on my graduate school applications, where I intend to pursue a joint-degree program to get my JD and Masters of Social Welfare. Senior year of college, I also decided it was time to become a dog mom and got a white Labrador Retriever named Bear! Not only is she the best companion, she's the best adventure buddy around and makes post-grad life so much fun!

I was a lifer at Sierra Canyon and spent all 14 years there! I loved the community, the endless support, and the incredible opportunities that I wouldn't have been able to get at any other school in the area. I spent all four years of high school playing softball and as a member of the school's GSA, where I created my family at SC. Going to Sierra, you get an endless support system that lasts well beyond high school; if it weren't for both Stacy Feliz, Jenny Hernandez, and the other teachers that supported me along the way (and continue to), I don't know where I would be today!

Are you still in touch with anyone from Sierra Canyon?

I am still in touch with a bunch of my close friends from Sierra Canyon, as well as multiple faculty members, and love constantly hearing about where people are now and all the incredible things they're doing!