Arturo was born in Portland, Oregon, but grew up in Los Angeles, California. He completed a dual B.A. in International Development Studies and Sociology from UCLA. During his undergraduate experience, he studied abroad in Switzerland and discovered a passion for international education and the first-gen experience abroad. While abroad, Arturo had the privilege of traveling to western, eastern, northern Europe, and Morocco.

Then, upon graduation, Arturo collaborated with colleagues at UCLA, NAU (Flagstaff, AZ) and, now, UCSC to ensure that students, no matter their background, can benefit from the academic, social, and professional advantages of an international education. Prior to joining the UCSC Global Learning team, Arturo served as an Education Abroad Advisor and specialized in all programs associated with LATAM and Spain.