The Story You Want to Tell: Jasmine Rivero-Yribe, BA IS&A ’26

Know the story you want to tell. The College of Information Science gives you the space to explore no matter what emphasis you decide, so take advantage of that and shape how you want to use your skills.

 
Jasmine Rivero-Yribe, a first-generation Bachelor of Arts in Information Science and Arts student from Tucson, started her academic journey at Pima Community College before transferring to the University of Arizona. After working on campus with U of A’s Fostering Success program—first as a participant and then as staff—the May 2026 graduate has accepted a position with the national nonprofit Foster Success as a program database coordinator, where she’ll ensure data accuracy across programs that help youth with education, housing, finances and employment. In this profile, Jasmine shares her journey of transformation as an InfoSci student and offers insight and advice for new students.

What brought you to the University of Arizona?

I started my college career at Pima Community College with the intention of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science. While still in high school at Nosotros Academy, I began taking college courses to get a head start, and I also enrolled in JTED’s information technology program.

As a Tucson native, the University of Arizona had always been a dream, and I eventually transferred to study computer science in the College of Science. However, after some tough realizations, I recognized that I wasn’t as passionate about the field as I initially thought, and I wasn’t thriving in the program.

After speaking with advisors, I was introduced to the College of Information Science. Although I was hesitant to switch, feeling like I had “wasted time,” it ended up being the best decision I could have made.

Is there a particular area of information science that most interests you?

Through my work with communities where information can be difficult to access or understand, I’ve developed a strong interest in making information and technology more accessible. During my time in the College of Information Science, I’ve been able to focus on that interest and work with organizations that share the same goal. What excites me most is being able to bridge the gap between data and people, making information not just available, but meaningful and usable.
  

What do you like best about the Bachelor of Arts in Information Science and Arts?

One of the things I appreciate most about this program is its emphasis on collaboration. Nearly every course I’ve taken has included meaningful group work. Not only has this prepared me for real-world, team-based environments, but it has also reinforced the importance of incorporating multiple perspectives both in front of and behind the data.

What has been your biggest challenge at the University of Arizona, and how have you overcome that challenge?

My biggest challenge at U of A was deciding to change my major. For a long time, I believed computer science was the path I was supposed to follow, so realizing it wasn’t the right fit was difficult both academically and personally.

No one really prepares you for the moment when your plans shift, or when you outgrow something you once felt certain about. With the support of advisors and mentors, I was able to step back and think critically about what I actually wanted. After exploring career paths, capstone projects and research within the College of Information Science, I felt confident making the switch and it completely changed my trajectory for the better.

What has been your biggest challenge outside of college?

Outside of school, one of my biggest challenges has been navigating higher education as someone who is first-generation. Balancing academics while managing responsibilities, work and uncertainty has not always been easy, but it has shaped my resilience and perspective. Learning how to manage my time, set boundaries and ask for support when needed has been key to overcoming this, and it’s something I continue to grow in.

Tell us about your job experience and next career steps.

I’ve been working on campus with Fostering Success for the past two years, both as a participant and a staff member. This experience has been life changing. It has shaped the type of work I want to pursue, using data and digital storytelling not only to support communities, but also to communicate impact in a meaningful way.

I was also fortunate to work with Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona for my capstone project, “Beyond the Thrift,” which further strengthened my skills and sense of purpose. The capstone also won the Fall 2025 Best Senior Capstone Research award.

Between these experiences and my background as an information science student, I was able to land a full-time job following graduation with Foster Success, a national nonprofit supporting teens and young adults transitioning out of foster care. I will be joining as a program database coordinator, ensuring data accuracy across its programs that help youth with education, housing, finances and employment.
  

What student organizations or other extracurricular activities are you involved with? Tell us about that experience.

As mentioned, I am both a participant in and staff member for Fostering Success, a program that supports students who have experienced foster care, housing insecurity, or homelessness. It has truly become a second home for me on campus. Beyond the support it provides, the program has also opened doors for professional growth.

In March, I attended the National Network for Youth Conference in Washington, DC, where advocates from across the country came together to support youth experiencing homelessness. During Hill Day, we had the opportunity to speak with state legislators, share our experiences and learn from others in the field. This was my second year attending the conference, and my third conference overall with the program.

What are your hobbies?

Some of my hobbies include reading, crocheting, playing video games, creating data visualizations for my favorite pop culture and watching musicals.

What does the InfoSci experience mean for you?

To me, the InfoSci experience is all about the intersection between data, technology and people. It’s shown me how impactful behind-the-scenes work can be and shown me how I can use my skills to contribute meaningfully to my community.

What advice do you have for prospective InfoSci students?

Know the story you want to tell. The College of Information Science gives you the space to explore no matter what emphasis you decide, so take advantage of that and shape how you want to use your skills.
  

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