Name: Karla
Nickname: KLo, Karlalala, Karl
Tenure: Rookie
Hometown: Irapuato, MX / Escondido, CA
Occupation: Recruiter / Talent Acquisition
College: San Francisco State University
Degree: Hospitality & Tourism Management, International Business
Languages: Spanish, English, Intro-Italian
Hobbies: Sculpting pottery, painting and drawing art, horseback riding, knitting, roller-skating, volleyball, soccer, ballroom, Reggaeton, stunting

Favorites
Song: Gasolina / Danza Kuduro
Quote: Choose joy
Food: Cali burritos, calamari
Store: Target, Amazon
Travel Destination: Spain
Color: Teal blue / red
Chips: Spicy chips with a hint of lime
Dream Job: Head of DEI / College Cheer Coach
School Subject: Ceramics
Book: Harry Potter, Nancy Drew

How do you spend your time outside of Gold Rush?
I work full time in Talent Acquisition, and I am also a Cheer & Dance Instructor inspiring kids all over the world. I also have a big passion for art and love finding creative ways to express myself like painting, knitting, pottery, and drawing.

What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
My most professional accomplishment thus far has been getting selected by Marriott International to take on a 1-year Manager Internship role out of college. Out of 4,000 applicants, I was one of 30 students selected in the US to participate in this opportunity. I went through multiple interview rounds and I'm very thankful to have had the support of my professors and my family throughout this journey. It was one of the best chapters of my life.

What personal accomplishment are you most proud of?
Making Gold Rush after four years of auditioning is my proudest accomplishment. I didn't grow up dancing, so each year I pushed myself harder, trained smarter, and believed in my growth. The journey taught me a lot about grit and the power of perseverance. I'm so thankful for my journey and wouldn't change a thing.

Tell us more about your job.
As a Corporate Recruiter, I get to help fill important roles that are crucial to my company's growth. This allows me to speak with people from very different walks of life and understand what they're looking for in their next role. My job is to guide them along the way and give them the best candidate experience possible.

What is a non-profit organization you're involved in and why did you choose to get involved?
I volunteer for the Wesley House, an organization based in San Diego, CA. This organization provides resources such as housing, school support, and mentorship to students from underprivileged backgrounds. As a mentor, I meet virtually with my students and we discuss situations like their school schedules, how to stay organized, and planning for career searches post-graduation. It's a humbling opportunity that allows me to see the journey of helping these students achieve their goals.

Who or what inspires you?
I am very inspired by my parents. Their work ethic, resilience, and the values they've instilled in me have shaped who I am. I watch them lead by example, making sacrifices so my sisters and I could chase our dreams. This has taught me what it means to work hard, stay humble, and never give up.

What's your favorite family tradition?
During the holidays, my family in Mexico hosts "posadas." Everyone gets their assigned day where they are in charge of prepping a festive meal, leading a prayer service, and singing Christmas carols. It's a great time to spend with family and friends and spread joy.

What was your first job?
I worked the concession stands at my high school during my last year. It was a fun first job that taught me how to multitask and work alongside my co-workers while supporting my school.

What impact do cheerleaders have during a game and/or in the community?
During game days, it's incredible to smile at fans and have them smile back, cheering on the 49ers together. It's amazing to see young fans light up when you acknowledge them, inspiring them to chase their dreams. Off the field, we connect with the community, bringing fans closer to the organization and its values. The 49ers fans are truly the most faithful and caring, and it's an honor to engage with them.

Who is your favorite 49ers player?
George Kittle! I respect his work ethic and competitive spirit to be the best teammate possible. Fun fact: he's also a huge Harry Potter fan!

Tell us about your favorite community appearance that you've attended as a Gold Rush Cheerleader.
My favorite community event so far was during our trip to Mexico City, when Club 49ers México hosted the annual fan photo at the Auditorio Nacional. I felt so welcomed by the fans. It reminded me of family, tradition, and the deep love we all share for the 49ers. It was an unforgettable experience that perfectly captured the passion of our international 49ers Faithful community.