Associated Student Senate President Camila Avendano abruptly left California Thursday to fly home to Chile , where her family awaits an interview with U.S. Embassy officials in regards to their current immigration status.

“Her dad won the (immigration) lottery,” Student Program Advisor T.K. Erickson said.

The immigration lottery is a way for non-citizens to legally obtain citizenship in the United States . With a successful interview, Avendano and her family are expected to receive permanent resident cards, also known as green cards. Full citizenship can be obtained after five years as a green card holder.

The chances of winning this lottery are slim.

“She was very excited at this new opportunity,” Student Trustee Sean Knotts said.

She is expected to return to Santa Barbara on March 16.

Attempts to reach her were not immediately returned.

Avendano took over as president last fall when former leader Tanja Khosrawipour abruptly moved back to Germany without any formal resignation.

“I think she’s done great, in my opinion,” Knotts said.

Vice President of External Affairs Mike Lin assumed her regular duties last Friday at the Student Senate’s regular Friday meeting. Lin recently became vice president after James DiPaolo stepped down because of scheduling conflicts, Knotts said.

Avendano was able to work out last minute arrangements with her professors in regards to necessary schoolwork that two weeks away from school would create, Erickson said.

Avendano is planning to transfer to a University of California or Cal State school in fall, Erickson said.