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After growing up in the Los Angeles area, UCSD grad (‘06) Jared Feldman originally thought he’d attend a college on the East Coast. But world events changed his mind and he decided to stick closer to home, at least for college. That was the first of many things that would change in Feldman's life. He started at UCSD as a religious studies major, but switched to economics. He became very involved with campus activities, honing his leadership skills and learning how people can affect change and shape the future. Feldman now lives and works in Washington D.C. He talks about what he learned during his four years at UCSD, and he shares some advice for new students, current students, and graduating seniors.

1. Why did you choose to attend UCSD?

Feldman: I chose UCSD for a variety of reasons. I applied to school at the end of 2001. The events of 9/11 changed my thinking a lot when I was looking at schools. Earlier in the year, I was seriously thinking about applying to schools on the East Coast. After 9/11, I reevaluated and thought more carefully about California schools and colleges closer to home. UCSD was always in the back my head. When I began looking more carefully at UC schools I realized how impressive UCSD is. I liked the curriculum at Revelle College, and I liked the idea that I could live near the beach.

2. What activities were you involved in on campus? 

Feldman: I was involved in a ton of campus activities. I was a Resident Advisor for Revelle College, and I was involved with Associated Students (AS). In AS, I served as Director of University Relations, then the Presidential Chief-of-Staff. I ran for Vice President Academic Affairs my sophomore year. I also chaired the University Centers Advisory Board. I sat on several campus-wide committees including a stint as co-chair of the University Centers Building Advisory Committee. I was also involved in the Chancellor’s Organization of Allied Students (COAST) and served as a Vice President. Finally, I sat on a couple system-wide committees through the Office of the President.

 

3. What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of from your time as a student at UCSD?

Feldman: There are a couple of accomplishments. The first was working on the University Centers Building Advisory Committee. I can only imagine how much the expansion of the Student Center and Price Center will change student life on campus. It was very exciting to be involved in that project and literally build for the future.

Also, my second year, I organized an event when Senator John Kerry - at the time the presumptive Democratic Presidential Nominee - visited campus. He held a rally at the Price Center, and thousands of people filled the plaza and Library Walk. It was incredible. The idea was to bring the Presidential election to the campus’s attention and have this campaign - which was so heavily dominated by television advertisements and websites - tangible to our community. I think after Sen. Kerry came to campus, the entire process resonated more with the student body.

 

4. What advice would you give to an incoming freshman student about succeeding at UCSD?

Feldman: Find what your really enjoy doing, and do that. I loved working with administrators and taking a leadership role on campus. I am thankful I followed that path.

 

5. What are some "outside the classroom" life lessons you learned as a UCSD student?

Feldman: I had a difficult time at the beginning of second year at UCSD. I learned how important it is have a strong network of friends and family. People go through difficult times, and it is so important to build solid relationships. It is important to be strong and be there for other people - you never know when they may need you, or you may need them.

 

6. What was it like to transition from UCSD student to alumnus?

Feldman: It wasn’t too bad. The hardest thing for me was the change in lifestyle. Sometimes when I wake up in the morning, put on a suit and tie, and run out, late for work at 8:10 a.m., I think…”what happened to me?” This is especially true when I come home after work in the evening and feel like going straight to bed. The pace of life is totally different.

 

7. What are you doing now?

Feldman: I live in Washington, DC and I work for the Jewish Council for Public Affairs which is the national umbrella agency for Jewish organizations addressing public policy concerns. I handle the civil rights and civil liberties portfolios.

 

8. How hard was it to get your first job out of college?

Feldman: It wasn’t easy, but not too bad. I think it just takes a lot of focus and determination. 

 

9. What advice do you have for graduating seniors?

Feldman: Stay focused.

 

10. What is your favorite memory from your time at UCSD?

Feldman: My favorite memory of UCSD is going on Karl Strauss on Wednesday nights with friends.

 

11. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Feldman: I’m not sure. I haven’t planned out that far in advance. I would like to stay in DC for another couple of years and eventually go back to school. Ten years down the line still feels like a long time.