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Where I Belong

Having joined Bruin Belles last year as a second year, I truly can see how my college experience has been shaped by this wonderful organization. During my first year at UCLA, I felt that something was missing-- a sense of belonging to a community where I felt like I could contribute to something larger than myself and a community where I would form long lasting relationships. Bruin Belles was exactly that. Joining Belles has been one of the best decisions I’ve made here at UCLA. What makes Belles so special is that every individual is so supportive of each other. I am always so in awe of how diverse, ambitious, and inspiring everyone is!

I have made so many strong friendships here. It is crazy to think that girls who were once new faces to me, are now some of my closest friends. From taking pictures at pumpkin patches to late night runs to Salt and Straw, from learning about sustainability and women’s rights to reading to kids, from singing our hearts out to High School Musical to screaming on Space Mountain at Disneyland, I have an endless stream of happy memories. 

One of my favorite events last year was Reading to Kids, where we read picture books at an elementary school near downtown. I actually did a Girl Scout project at that particular elementary school, so I am grateful that Belles has led me back to serving the Los Angeles youth. It warms my heart that we all joined with a passion for service and interest in becoming more integrated into the UCLA and Los Angeles community.  I have so much love and respect for Belles, and I cannot wait to see what this year has in store for us!

 Hannah Chew
Fundraising Distinguished Belle


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