For Myrtha Ortiz Villar '17, studying Geography unlocked a passion for data and social justice

Person in graduation regalia poses for a photo with hand on hip, with the Campanile in the background
As a student activist and Geography major while at Berkeley, I developed a way of thinking and problem-solving that is very different than many of my peers today.
Myrtha Ortiz Villar '17
December 4, 2024

L&S Alum Spotlight:
Myrtha Ortiz Villar '17 (she/they)

Major: Geography

Myrtha Ortiz Villar is a Senior Manager of Data Strategy and Insights in the non-profit sector, as well as a consultant and career coach. With a professional journey that spans roles as an immigrant rights activist, college student support professional, and higher education specialist, Myrtha has emerged as a skilled data practitioner. In this capacity, she collaborates with college access and success professionals to enhance their services through data-driven insights.

Their passion for geography as an undergraduate student sparked an interest in using data to tell compelling stories about communities and issues. Armed with a master’s degree from Harvard University, today Myrtha combines a deep commitment to education with expertise in data strategy to drive meaningful societal impact.

What have you been up to since graduation and how did your experience at Berkeley influence your journey? 

I live with my partner of five years in Pinole, CA and enjoy working out, playing basketball, and tapping into my inner child by playing video games and reading science-fiction books. I also spend a lot of time in my hometown of Los Angeles, supporting my family.

Before UC Berkeley and early in my Berkeley career, I never envisioned myself being a "Data Person." However, due to my major in geography, I learned how to use both theory and practice to tell stories about underrepresented communities. In my fourth year, I took a GIS class that introduced me to data software that can help me tell stories using various forms of data. Despite not working with GIS now in my professional career, I cherish that experience as the first time I saw myself as a "Data Person." As a student activist and geography major while at Berkeley, I developed a way of thinking and problem-solving that is very different than many of my peers today.

My academic background has enabled me to delve into the historical context of oppressive systems and understand how place and space are intricately intertwined with our daily lives. I believe that my unique perspective, shaped by my geography background, allows me to think in innovative ways in any situation.

What has been a favorite or memorable moment in your journey so far?

One of my favorite moments during my undergraduate studies was when I had the opportunity to travel to Mexico for two study abroad programs in a single summer. One of the programs was possible because of the support of the Chicanx/Latinx Student Development Office (CLSD). Through this joint program with San Francisco State University, I got to visit Mexico City for the first time and connect with social justice activists who were leading prominent social movements across the region. Despite being of Mexican descent myself, I had never before been able to travel to Mexico, so spending an entire summer there was one of the highlights of my undergraduate career.

Can you share a challenge that you've had to navigate?

One of the biggest challenges I've faced in my career journey is financing my master's degree. Being from a first-generation, low-income background, I had to work multiple consulting projects and part-time jobs during my master's program to make ends meet. It was an incredibly challenging year, not just because I was 3,000 miles away from home, but also because I was working over 40 hours a week while being a full-time student. Despite being a working student during my undergraduate career, I had a lot of financial aid support which, unfortunately, you cannot access in graduate school. However, it was through those consulting projects and part-time roles that I was able to craft an exciting resume and experience that led me to my career today.

Two people posing outdoors with a vista in the background

Myrtha and their sister at Twin Peaks

Person on Harvard University campus posing in commencement regalia

Graduation at Harvard University, 2022

Make genuine connections with friends, classmates, and mentors because these connections will support [your] development in the future.
Myrtha Ortiz Villar '17

What is something that is sustaining and supporting you? 

The UC Berkeley community plays a vital role in supporting me, both through mentors I am still in touch with and friends who continue to influence my life. I have a group of friends who are all alumni of Berkeley and remain in the Bay Area. We have maintained a close friendship and support network due to our shared experience as students of color at Berkeley navigating the world as first-generation professionals.

My sister, who also attended Berkeley, also continues to be a sounding board for me in our navigation of life. My sister and I took some classes together during our time at Berkeley, which has helped us see eye to eye on many issues and support each other in tough moments. Overall, my Berkeley connections are a crucial pillar of support in my life.

My sister and I took some classes together at Berkeley, which has helped us see eye to eye on many issues and support each other in tough moments. Overall, my Berkeley connections are a crucial pillar of support in my life.
Myrtha Ortiz Villar '17

Are there any specific projects, initiatives, or causes you're currently passionate about?

I am currently very interested in connecting with other data practitioners who work in the non-profit and college success space. Building a data culture and using data to improve impact is slowly emerging and becoming more prominent in the non-profit sector. I am excited to collaborate with other professionals who are facing challenging questions around data management, data practices, and impact tracking.

What is one piece of advice or something you wish you had known as a Berkeley student?

I advise current students to make genuine connections with friends, classmates, and mentors because these connections will support their development in the future, whether it be through opportunities or simply learning from others' experiences. Additionally, I advise students to be open to multiple career options and not pigeonhole themselves into just their major or a career they thought they wanted before coming to Berkeley.

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