College Grad to Auditor
As a first-generation Mexican American and the first in her family to graduate from college, Itzy has always been driven to advocate for what is right. Her role as an auditor allows her to apply her problem-solving skills to real-world issues, particularly those affecting underserved communities.
At the California State Auditor’s Office, she focused on child welfare, helping resolve critical issues and shape legislative recommendations. Now based in Sydney, Australia, she works as a senior auditor, conducting internal performance audits for private companies and government agencies.
Opening Doors Through Connections
Itzy describes the confidence she gained as a Dell Scholar, knowing she had the program’s support behind her. While she started college as a shy student, taking on a leadership role as Vice President of Finance for California College Democrats further helped her step out of her comfort zone. She quickly realized the power of networking: “Every connection I made opened up new doors.”
Exploring a potential law career, she leveraged her network to land legal and financial advising internships. Though law school wasn’t the right fit, the experience gave her clarity. Now, she encourages others to seize similar opportunities: “It’s great for your resume, but more importantly, it helps you figure out what you actually want to do.”