Interview with Andy Barrera Rio
From understanding social dynamics to supporting student success, Andy Barrera Rio exemplifies how students can channel their education into actionable societal change.
After graduating in 2023 with degrees in psychology and Chicano & Chicana studies, Rio continued dedicating his time and efforts to breaking gender norms on masculinity and helping students with housing to form a supportive community. As the Assistant Resident Director at San Rafael Hall and a former Men's Engagement Educator, he leads efforts to reshape traditional views on masculinity. Through his leadership of the campus Masculinity Project, Rio has created a transformative space where men can critically engage with and challenge deep-rooted societal norms of masculinity. His insights on machismo and patriarchy, which he shared in his 2023 TEDx Talk, further emphasize his commitment to this cause. His efforts extend beyond discussions; Rios is actively training new educators to continue advancing this crucial work, ensuring that the impact of his initiatives on masculinity and social norms is both sustainable and far-reaching.
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Why did you choose to work in a student hall on campus after graduation?
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I think there are a lot of reasons for that. One thing for me: I'm a first-generation student - both my parents came from Mexico. The whole idea was to try to have a better life. I always saw education as the key to success. I know it kind of seems like I'm taking my answer way far back, but I think what I'm saying is that my background prides me on believing in helping other people and trying to set future students up for success. At UCSB, where it's a diverse campus, there's even more of a need to help the incoming students. The way people helped me in the housing department inspired me; I wanted to help other people. Working in a residence hall with first and second years, I have the ability to help students and guide them toward education and establish that community. That is the major reason.
What is your role as an Assistant Resident Director, and how does your role help you in your professional development?
I co-supervised the building's resident assistants. That is a team of 12. I run the hall council, which is a student government. I am in charge of conduct. When students break the rules, they meet me or my supervisor. I think it is a good professional development opportunity. I feel like it just prepares you for the professional world with diverse people.
In what ways do you think the undergraduate education you received from the UCSB social sciences is serving you in your current role?
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My undergraduate education in psychology and Chicano studies at UCSB has been instrumental in my current role. Psychology taught me about human behavior, social dynamics, and biases, which helped me understand group interactions better. Chicano studies expanded my knowledge of social justice movements and the struggles for equity among Latinos and other marginalized communities, including queer and trans people of color. This education broadened my perspective and inspired me to advocate for change, influencing how I incorporate diverse perspectives into my work in residence halls.
How has your time at UCSB shaped your understanding and perspectives on gender roles?
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Growing up, we're taught to view things very binary, like male or female. Boys get blue; girls get pink. Through my studies, I've learned that gender isn't confined to rigid categories; it's more like a spectrum where individuals can fall anywhere. You're unique and special in your own way, but that doesn't mean we have to classify you. The idea of a spectrum allows different characteristics to apply to anybody. Sometimes, I wear studs, sometimes hoops, and I've been told those are feminine. But for me, it's just who I am. Viewing it this way has made me open to talking to non-binary people and seeing how I could support them, whether it's my usage of pronouns or inclusive language. It's made me more in tune with seeing things differently.
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In what ways does your past and current involvement on campus help you engage in work to promote the concept of breaking gender norms?
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I started working for the CARE office. I worked there for two years, and in my senior year, they created the men's engagement educator position for me. In this position, I would create programming to engage and promote a healthier, more sustainable masculinity.
Our program challenges toxic masculinity by discussing its impact and encouraging open emotional expression. We use storytelling to foster conversations that break down gender norms, promoting kindness and caregiving beyond traditional roles. I model these behaviors in my interactions, advocating for a healthier masculinity.
Let’s talk about your insights on machismo and patriarchy, which you shared on TEDx Talk. How did you get interested in this topic?​
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It was a rolling stone. I didn't come into college like this is what I'm going to do. I noticed the discrepancies between women and men in high school. In college, I saw those discrepancies and wanted to become better because I lacked genuine role models who cared about people. I started as a peer educator for CARE, where I focused on preventing sexual assault, domestic violence, and stalking through presentations and engaging with students. My supervisor showed me a CNN documentary where prisoners in the California system were trying to deconstruct patriarchy with support groups. It opened my mind. Ultimately, during my last year at cafes, the office created my position as a men’s educator. Instead of just focusing on interpersonal violence, it allowed me to work with men. It's been a slow journey overall.
What message would you like to give to the students at the social science division to channel their curiosity into activities beyond academics that contribute to societal change?
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Being patient with yourself is key when advocating for societal change. It's important to understand that significant changes take time and consistent effort. Even small interactions, like meeting a few individuals a day, can make a big impact. It’s about viewing your efforts as a long-term process and recognizing the value of gradual progress. Building trust and dependability through consistent action is crucial, as is learning from each experience. So, keep exploring, meeting new people, and trying new opportunities. Always remember, it's a marathon, not a sprint—persevere and don’t get discouraged.
To conclude our conversation, what is the single most important piece of advice you would offer to someone looking to make a positive change in their community?
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I think it's ultimately remembering that you'll make mistakes; it's part of the process. And staying humble is crucial. Sometimes, people in helping positions can lose sight of prioritizing people. It's about treasuring others' stories and resilience. For example, there was a video by the LA Times about undocumented students, where one student seemed to be struggling in school, but in reality, he was working full-time to support himself. You never know the challenges people face to get where they are. So, staying humble and valuing others' journeys is key.
Amulets in ancient Egypt did much more than just decorate the necks and wrists of their wearers — they were essential tools believed to protect against illnesses and evil forces, said historian Evan Axel Andersson at the 2024 Van Gelderen Lecture, hosted by UC Santa Barbara’s History Department.
Andersson brought this ancient world to life in his lecture, “Protect the One Who Carries You: Amulets and Daily Life in Roman Egypt.” A packed room of historians, alumni and guests gathered for the event, which showcases a Ph.D. student’s work and is named for the late UCSB donor Jo Beth Van Gelderen. It was co-sponsored by UCSB History Associates, which brings alumni and members of the larger community together with UCSB faculty.
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Andersson delved into the mystical world of Roman Egypt, describing amulets as “personal guardians.” They were viewed as protective entities that individuals carried with them to safeguard against harm, both physical and spiritual. Anderson said these items featured designs and writings that blended Egyptian, Hellenistic, and Christian traditions, showing a rich mix of cultural and religious influences.
Andersson’s presentation delved into the lives of ancient residents of ‘Oxyrhynchus,’ a city situated 130 miles south of modern Cairo. A Ph.D. candidate at UCSB, Andersson investigates the nuanced interplay of philosophy, spirituality, and society across the Mediterranean and the Middle East from the 1st to the 5th century CE. He researches the extensive collection of papyrus fragments that were unearthed in the region from the late 19th century to the present day.
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The slide shows an ancient fever cure amulet inscribed to 'Relieve Plousios from the shivers,' highlighting historical medical practices in Roman Egypt.
One artifact Andersson discussed was a fever amulet from the 3rd century, believed to have held the power to stop shivers. “This entity is clearly powerful, but it is also supernatural; that is, it is beyond our world,” Andersson noted. He stressed how deeply intertwined spiritual beliefs and health practices were in Roman Egypt, saying that such amulets were not merely ornamental but vital to addressing the existential and religious concerns of the people at the time.
Amulets were used not just for protection and healing, Andersson said, but also to call upon divine help in daily life through special chants. This use of amulets shows a deeper layer of religious identity and practice among ancient wearers, which challenges modern misconceptions about the role of amulets in Christianity. He said contemporary society often views amulets solely as “pagan or superstitious artifacts,” which overlooks their significant spiritual and symbolic meanings within religious contexts, including in early Christianity.
In his presentation, Andersson introduced another artifact: a red jasper gemstone carved with an image of Hercules fighting the Hydra, a mythical many-headed serpent. This depiction is unique and unusual, differing from the themes typically found in such artifacts. The gemstone might symbolize healing powers or represent a victory over overwhelming challenges, reflecting the broad spectrum of beliefs held by the people in late Roman Oxyrhynchus, he said. This city was a cultural crossroads where traditions from Greek, Egyptian, Jewish, and Christian backgrounds intermingled, creating a complex and diverse society.
The lecture attracted a wide array of experts and enthusiasts. “My husband and I were interested in this lecture because of
This striking red jasper gem, shown in Evan Axel Andersson’s recent Van Gelderen history lecture, depicts Hercules in his legendary battle against the Hydra. This artifact, from the collections of Oxyrhynchus, illustrates the artistic melding of myth and material in Roman Egypt.
our fascination with medieval history,” said Amanda Frost, a medieval historian and UCSB alumna.
Thomas Riley, a computer science engineer with a passion for ancient history, said the talk showed the intersection of past and present technologies.
“It is fascinating to see how modern technology can reveal so much about these ancient objects,” Riley said.
The UCSB History Department plans to make a detailed summary and multimedia presentation that highlights Andersson’s research.