A student of UCLA was found dead in a campus parking structure earlier this week. Nicholas David Chew, 21 year 21-year-old student and member of the UCLA community, was found and confirmed dead by the County Coroner’s Office, and he apparently died by committing suicide.
Those who knew Nichola say he was an intelligent, caring, and deeply compassionate individual. He founded the UCLA Coffee Club, a space for students to connect and also served as the president of BridgeUSA at UCLA, where he promoted open and respectful conversations between people with varying beliefs.
He was originally from Clovis and was admired for his optimism and interest in the affairs of others, making it a thing to check up on friends despite his own worries. Many have taken to social media sharing tributes about Nicholas, calling him “a light in every room” and the kind of friend everyone prays they had.
UCLA has encouraged students to reach out for mental health support as the campus grieves. Though his passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, Nichola’s legacy of kindness will continue to guide those he impacted.
