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Julia Barajas
What I cover
My reporting encompasses everything from research universities to community colleges, with an emphasis on students who’ve been historically excluded from higher education. I focus on issues that could affect students’ learning conditions and post-grad opportunities. This includes new programs and teaching methods; the spread of generative AI; labor disputes; disciplinary proceedings; and access to financial aid. I also highlight campus resources and events that are open to the broader community.
My background
Up until 12th grade, I was never assigned anything written by a person of Mexican descent, despite growing up in L.A. County, where Latinos make up nearly half of the population. So when a brochure for East Los Angeles College appeared in the mailbox, I tried out dual enrollment and took an introductory Chicano Literature course. Our class read everything from Tomás Rivera’s “... And the Earth Did Not Devour Him” to Bernice Zamora’s “Notes from a Chicana ‘COED.’” And what I learned there — about writing, about history and about myself — stayed with me. It informed my decision to major in literature and Latin American studies when I went on to earn a bachelor’s degree, and it continues to shape the work I do now.
My goals
I aim to help all college students chart a course of success for themselves, guided by their own curiosities and ambitions.
Best way to reach me
If you’re worried or excited about something related to SoCal higher ed, I’d love to hear about it. You can reach out by email at jbarajas@laist.com. If you have a tip you'd like to share more privately, you can reach me on Signal. My username is @jbarajas.68. You can follow this link to reach me there or type my username in the search bar after starting a new chat.
Stories by Julia Barajas
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Baker Commodities, Inc. — a company that was the focus of an LAist investigation into hazardous odors — says that the photos contain trade secrets and should be sealed.
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An LAist review found that two rendering companies had past violations and briefly operated without signs that inform the public where to report smell problems.
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Baker Commodities Inc. in the city of Vernon is suing the government agency that oversees it for $200 million in damages. Neighbors had celebrated its temporary shutdown. Now an upcoming court decision could allow a full reopening.
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Southeast L.A. residents have grappled with the stench of rotting flesh for decades, on top of other environmental ills.
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When it comes to foul odors, there’s no need to grin and bear it. Here’s a guide on where to report problems in Southern California.
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On LAist’s AirTalk, L.A. Mayor Karen Bass discussed the strike, saying L.A. has become unaffordable.
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Picketers went back to work Wednesday, but contract negotiations remain unresolved.
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When L.A.'s waitlist opened last fall, 30,000 applicants landed a spot. Many are now wondering how their monthly payments will be calculated.
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New ordinances cap annual rent increases at 3% and add relocation assistance.
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Garfield High School unveiled a plaque honoring the legacy of the student protests.
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Members of Molina's quilting group say the pioneering politician stood by their side through tough times.
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Through paintings, photographs, and installations, “South L.A. Is Still Home” delves deep into how the housing crisis affects on Black and Latino residents.
