Student Spotlight: Angela Calaguas

Angela Calaguas

Please share briefly about your history and background

I was born in Guam and raised in Northern, CA. Both my parents met when they immigrated to Guam for work. My family moved to Sacramento. I attended the University of California Santa Barbara. I participated in several Filipino service groups while in undergraduate school. I am at TUC in the College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Why are you proud to be Filipino?

We have a rich history of resilience and a remarkably close community. My parents made a sacrifice, which was moving to Guam, to support their family in the Philippines. Millions of Filipinos move from the Philippines to get jobs to send money back home to family members. Filipinos, as a community, also support one another. I can reach out to anyone in the Filipino Community for mentoring, personal support, and career advice. We have a deep sense of community and pride.

Why is it important to celebrate Filipino American History Month?

Being able to know our history is important because it helps us feel closer to our heritage and our families. Personally, knowing my history has helped me push for positive change in my community, especially regarding healthcare awareness.

What brought you to TUC?

I am the eldest daughter. It was important for me to attend school close to my parents in Sacramento because they were getting older. I really appreciate their support while I am in medical school. TUC also has a diverse community of students. I have learned so much from the cultures and heritage of my own classmates. This has helped me when collaborating with diverse patients as part of my clinical experience. TUC is in Vallejo which has a large Filipino population. I have always wanted to give back to my Filipino Community. I am already able to do this while being a TUC student.

What is your favorite quote?

One of my favorite quotes is “Isang Bagsak” which in Tagalog means “One Down.” It stems from the United Farm Workers movement with Larry Itliong and Cesar Chavez. Latinx and Filipinx farm workers would end their days by having this unity clap, showing a sign of solidarity. Doing the clap and saying “Isang Bagsak,” means when one falls, we all fall. But when one rises, we all rise.

Is there anything else that you would like to share?

I am the Community Outreach Coordinator for PUSO. Also, the SGA Vice President for Community Outreach. Both positions allow me to collaborate with underserved communities as a medical student at TUC.