Tell us about yourself:
I’m pursuing a law major with an intended minor in psychology. I’m originally from Amherst, Massachusetts, but my family immigrated from El Salvador.
I am a current McNair Scholar with the Center for First-Generation & Educational Equity.
Why did you choose Suffolk?
I chose Suffolk for its central location in a city. Suffolk also had the ideal major program and career opportunities surrounding the campus, with areas of interest for involvement on campus. I am very proud of the work I have been able to accomplish, and the support that Suffolk has given me.
Are you involved in student organizations?
I currently serve as the treasurer for the Latine Student Alliance, Secretary for the Pasion Latina Dance team, second-year class representative for the College of Arts & Sciences, treasurer of the 10 West/Modern Residence Hall Council and Tri-Alpha Honors Society.
What other jobs and experiences have you had that have enriched your Suffolk education?
I am a diversity peer educator (DPE) with the Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion and an office assistant with the Center for First Generation & Educational Equity. My work as a DPE has allowed me to conduct inclusive programming on campus and facilitate educative workshops with my peers regarding identity and social competency.
What inspired you to pursue your degree and area of study?
My family was a big motivator. Their support has encouraged me to challenge myself in areas of the unknown, as well as study topics and areas I am interested in. Being first-gen, I have the opportunity to do something my parents never had the chance to do.
What course, project, or other experience has been the most compelling, interesting, or significant for you so far?
My Creativity and Innovation Across Borders class pushes me to think about innovation and engineering in a global aspect, and how other global hotspots create supplements of tech to better the lives of their people. It has intrigued me to think out of the Western hemisphere and keep up to date with what’s happening globally.
Are there any faculty or staff who have significantly affected your experience, or who you would consider a mentor?
Beatriz Patiño, the director of the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion, has been a huge morale booster, has seen my potential to teach and educate, and has helped me be able to foster a community on campus. Lisa Rivera, the director of First-Generation Student Initiatives, was my mentor in Suffolk's “Connect the Dots” program, and she helped me feel valued as a first-gen student. Thanks to her, I got involved with the Center, which motivated me to get further involved in our community. I also would like to credit Theresa Doherty from the Orientation and New Student Programs office/CARES, for her continuous support since my first year. Oftentimes many first-gen students have to create a boundary of separation of their problems at home to concentrate on our education, and Theresa helped support me in my journey of doing that.
What are your future career goals?
I plan to pursue my PhD. or attend graduate school in the policy/law concentration, as a benchmark for my goal to attend law school and become a practicing attorney in human rights and representation of primarily marginalized communities.
How will your degree or the experiences you’ve had at Suffolk help you achieve those goals?
Suffolk has shown me how much I have left to learn. I have enjoyed every experience and every lesson, and I am motivated to keep going forward. Many of the lessons I’m learning result from trying and failing, which Suffolk has allowed me to do while still lifting me up.