Born and raised in a small town in Venezuela, Lorena Garcia’s aspirations were limitless.
After studying abroad for eight months in Boston, Massachusetts, she continued her studies in the U.S., beginning at Hillsborough Community College. There she connected with people from diverse backgrounds and learned about their beliefs and traditions, discovering the transformative power of empathy and community.
Honoring a commitment to service, Garcia volunteered at AdventHealth in the outpatient therapy department for seven months and joined the Health Buddy program of Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay, Inc.
She initially signed up to assist a senior in enhancing her self-care through weekly phone calls. However, her role extended beyond mere companionship. She became a support for her buddy, Mariella, aiding her in navigating community resources and support systems.
Aside from her commitment to community service, Garcia is dedicated to her professional development. She worked as an HR intern with Bankers Financial Corporation, serves as a graduate assistant for a USF Principles of Management class, and is a USF Muma Student Ambassador.
Garcia is expected to graduate in 2024 with a master’s degree in human resources management. She also earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from USF.
She says that “her journey and experience at USF have been instrumental in shaping who she is today, both personally and professionally. The university’s rich resources and opportunities have reaffirmed her passion for working with and helping people.”
This summer she will join NBCUniversal as an HR intern in Universal City, California.
25 Under 25 Program 