Emerson Mese Gilbert

“The purpose of life is not just to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived & lived well.” 

― Ralph Waldo Emerson

About Me

Born and raised near the shores of the Pacific Ocean in North County San Diego, I am a beach and nature enthusiast who finds inspiration in the fun-loving, mellow spirit of Southern California. My multi-ethnic and multicultural family background, combined with extensive international travel and work with people from diverse social and cultural backgrounds, has strengthened my belief in the importance of openness and empathy. I have learned that the most meaningful connections often arise from embracing the unexpected and appreciating the richness of difference.

Growing up in a family that celebrates all cultures and perspectives, I have always been drawn to stories that fall outside the mainstream narrative. My curiosity about different viewpoints reflects my belief that every story matters, and that it is often the untold ones that can reshape our understanding of history and society.

I am currently pursuing a concurrent dual-degree in Bachelor of Media Studies and Master of Management at the University of British Columbia, where I am exploring how creativity and strategy intersect to shape influence and drive meaningful change. Looking ahead, I hope to combine creative storytelling with strategic communication and entrepreneurial thinking to build platforms that connect people and ideas across cultures. I envision a future where thoughtful leadership and inclusive messaging can influence not just how we tell stories, but how organizations engage with the world.

Get to Know Me

Recommendations

  • Emerson’s insights elevate class debates and conversations, demonstrating intellectual curiosity. Academically, Emerson demonstrated mastery of the concepts and process skills covered based on her final exam, class debates, projects and quizzes. Emerson embodied intellectual curiosity in the classroom through her enthusiasm for all the projects she worked on. Emerson delivered a strong presentation on Assata Shakur for the Voices of Social Justice project. Her accompanying visual art piece was creative and well-thought out. For her second semester Honors project she interviewed a woman involved in voter registration as a way to highlight the long term impact of women’s suffrage. I commend her perseverance in completing the project. Emerson’s compassionate approach to life allows her to connect deeply with others, and that was shown over and over again through her study of US history this year.

    – Alicia Tembi

    Principal, History 11 Teacher

  • Emerson is one of the most motivated, committed, high achieving, mature students I have ever known. She stands out among the hundreds of students I have taught over the years as a truly exceptional human being with magnificent potential. My relationship with Emerson is unique because she has made the effort to build a strong bond. Emerson connects deeply with people wherever she goes. She is well loved and admired among her peers, elders, and juniors alike. She is more than personable; she is compassionate, giving, self aware, wise, and thoughtful. She embraces others in her loving way, mentoring many at school, in dance, and in my studio.

    – Christine Lehman

    Christine Lehman Voice & Piano Studio

  • Emerson is such a passionate and motivated young woman, so she is primed to be an English teacher's dream. Her curiosity and dedication to her ancestry is at the core of her identity, but she is interested in many other perspectives. She is a diligent student, and a naturally talented writer. I enjoy how outspoken she can be, because it is always completely sincere and unaffected. Emerson is uniquely Emerson.

    — Kara Chine

    English 11 Teacher

  • What sets Emerson apart is her extraordinary work ethic and willingness to put in the necessary effort to excel in class.

    — Dominique Bartoughian

    ASB Advisor & Algebra II Teacher

  • Balancing the demands of all Emerson has achieved and continues to pursue is truly admirable. But what stands out above and beyond these achievements that cannot be overstated is the heart of Emerson’s character. Emerson is genuinely kind and empathetic, she seeks opportunity, she is committed to equity and equality, she makes space for those around her, and she sees the best in others. While many young adults can and do develop robust resumes such as Emerson has done, there are not many who have been able to do so with the strength of character Emerson emulates.

    – Christie Kay

    PAW Parent Corps, Lead

  • I really enjoyed Emerson's contributions during class discussions and her dedication to better understanding the material during class activities.

    — Paulina Davis-Fisher

    Chemistry Teacher

  • Emerson has worked diligently at improving her writing skills and most recently had a wonderful article published on the second page. Emerson approaches each Journalism class with a positive attitude and completes her required assignments in a timely manner. It is a privilege to have Emerson as one of the founding members of the Grauer Gazette.

    — Louise Hyland

    Journalism Teacher

Read my resume to learn about more of my achievements.

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