Working hard, dedication, and persistence, is how Elva Linares keeps moving forward in life. She gained these attributes as a young farm worker growing up in the Central Valley. In college, these skills guided and motivated Elva to continue working and finish her education. Currently these skills continue guiding her in her efforts to further her educational and professional career.

Elva recently graduated from the University of California, Davis with a double major in Psychology with an emphasis in child development and International Relations with an emphasis in South America. During her four years in college she was an active participant on campus and within the community. On campus she was involved in leadership organization with the mission of helping minority communities. One important contribution Elva made was being part of the advocacy efforts for the rights of undocumented students.

While attending school, she worked for the UC Davis Western Center for Agriculture Health and Safety where she had the opportunity to interact with the Latino community throughout California. While working for this center as a Junior Analyst, Elva had the responsibility to effectively train agricultural workers on safety issues such as heat stress and overall job site safety. Besides informing the community, she had the chance to contribute to significant research aimed at reducing any unknown potential hazards that could injure or harm farm workers while working.

Issues that affect minority underserved communities in California have always been of interest to Elva. She finds the challenges and difficulties faced by California’s underserved communities important to understand. These minority groups comprise a large percent of California’s population. Addressing these issues can only benefit California’s society as a whole and empower all Californians.

After her 2010-2011 Polanco Fellowship, Elva plans to continue her education attending Law School and furthering her career goals.