Erik Aviles

Erik is a first-generation college student and Computer Science major at the University of Notre Dame, where he has developed a strong focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Erik grew up with a firsthand understanding of what is at stake when a student’s dreams are cut short because of their limitations. Growing up with this gave him a rooted and personal motivation to pursue not just his own success, but to help build pathways for the next generations of students to come.

As a Policy Fellow with the Campaign for College Opportunity, Erik is applying his technical background to support the organization’s research and data infrastructure, while deepening his understanding of the policy landscape that shapes college access for underrepresented students across California.

Undergraduate student at the University of Notre Dame, Class of 2028.

Your role in one sentence: I am using my technical background to support the Campaign’s research and data work.

When I am not at work helping students get to and succeed in college… I am exploring the city, playing and watching soccer, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family.

If not higher education, then what cause? Immigration. There is too much happening right now that is plainly unjust, and It’s a cause I am willing to put real time and effort into, looking making things right for people who deserve better.