Member Spotlight
Get to know the ambitious members of LBSA.
MARCH
Fatima Alvarez Ramos
Year: Freshman
Major: Behavioral Economics and Psychology
Hometown: Clearlake, CA
Current involvements: LBSA Future Leaders Program, BCC Member, IDEAS Programming Intern
Fun Fact: I almost ran someone over during my driver’s test but still got my driver’s license.
Career Plans: I’m not set on one industry yet. However, I’m very interested in marketing! I also am interested in gaining more knowledge about Public Relations and Advertising!
What inspired you to join this club, and what has kept you active and engaged as a member?
What inspired me to join this club was the desire to find a community at a new school. Moving to a new place can be daunting, and I wanted to connect with like-minded individuals who shared my interests. What has kept me active and engaged as a member is the incredible bond of fellowship and support within the club.
Involvement in LBSA:
LBSA is an incredible community for anyone interested in exploring Latino culture, business, and making lasting connections. LBSA is filled with amazing people, all super welcoming and fun. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, meet like-minded individuals, or simply have a great time, LBSA is the perfect place to grow personally and professionally.
FEBRUARY
Catalina Dyson
Year: Freshman
Major: World Bachelor in Business
Hometown: Denver, Colorado
Current involvements: Robert J. Coury Leadership Program, Trojan Investing Society, WBB Social Media Team, KASA Dance Off, Breakon2 Annex
Fun Fact: I love to dance all kinds of Latin styles! My favorite is salsa!
Career Plans: In the future, I plan to work in finance, preferably internationally. I am also incredibly interested in the start-up space and entrepreneurship.
What inspired you to join this club, and what has kept you active and engaged as a member?
When walking through the Marshall Involvement Fair, LBSA quickly caught my attention as an organization filled with a diverse network of Latino professionals who were willing to support me throughout my college journey. Joining the LBSA Future Leaders Cohort and taking on a project lead position has allowed me to actively continue my participation in LBSA while developing my leadership skills.
Involvement in LBSA:
This is my second semester of LBSA. Although LBSA is an extensive hub of bright and hardworking Latino professionals, I would describe the club as more of a “familia”. Throughout my experience in LBSA, I have been supported in my academic pursuits and found genuine friendships among club members, allowing me to navigate my first semester at USC.
JANUARY
Jamie Ledesma
Year: Freshman
Major: Business Administration
Hometown: San Jose, CA
Current involvements: LBSA Future Leaders Program, Robert J. Coury Applied Leadership Program, & BCG Launch
Fun Fact: I am scared of heights, but I have been skydiving.
Career Plans: Currently, I want to go into the consulting industry due to the exposure to a variety of fields and industries. Also interested in real estate management!
What inspired you to join this club, and what has kept you active and engaged as a member?
I was inspired by the vibrant network of professionals in a variety of industries! Being apart of LBSA has not only expanded my understanding of essential business skills, but also provided me with a supportive network of like-minded individuals with whom I can develop both personally and professionally. Everyone is easily to approach and always available for advice.
Involvement in LBSA:
This is my second semester in LBSA. I'd describe LBSA as the hub of latino business here on campus, where my career development is only a piece of the supportive community here. I have been given opportunities to network, develop professionally, and access resources specifically tailored for Latinos in the business realm.
DECEMBER
Carlos Castaneda
Year: Junior
Major: Business Administration with a minor in Applied Analytics
Hometown: San Jose, California
Current involvements: GIS, HIG, CAP Mentorship, LSL, TIS, MEA, LBSA, & TSA
Fun Fact: On the side, I am heavily involved with film production. I helped out with two music video projects here in Los Angeles.
Career Plans: I plan to pursue a career within the financial services industry, specifically in Commercial Banking. Additionally, I am exploring opportunities in tech, driven by my interest in machine learning and AI.
What inspired you to join this club, and what has kept you active and engaged as a member?
I was inspired by the numerous Latino and first-generation students who took that significant leap into pursuing higher education. The current e-board members, who are passionate business leaders, not only keep me active within LBSA but also provide unwavering support.
Involvement in LBSA:
I’ve been a member of LBSA for a year now. I would describe LBSA as an inclusive student organization committed to building a supportive community for individuals with an interest in business and share an appreciation for Latino culture. The organization offers numerous opportunities to participate in enriching events that contribute to both personal and professional development.
OCTOBER
Ben Llados
Year: Freshman
Major: Business Administration
Hometown: Portland, Oregon
Current involvements: LBSA, TSS, & VP of McCarthy Community Council
Fun Fact: I am an Argentine American! I've also never seen or read Harry Potter.
Career Plans: I want to go into Marketing in the entertainment, video game, and big tech industries. I am also thinking of doing consulting.
What inspired you to join this club, and what has kept you active and engaged as a member?
I was inspired to join this club because I wanted to create a network of diverse people who understand my culture. I stay engaged because as a freshman it's really useful to start making these connections and gain mentorship from fellow members.
How would you describe LBSA to someone interested in joining?
It's a really great way to educate yourself on business in depth. You learn the process of going into industries, then get workshops to actually do the processes you're learning about. It's also a great way to meet friends and peers who can further develop your career.