I’m a first-generation student. My mom never attended high school. When I was six, we moved from Mexico to South Dakota. I remember she thought that first fall was winter and dressed me in about seven layers.
I am a DACA student and ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Kate’s offered the best financial aid and the most attention and support. That attracted me because I hadn't been given much attention in high school. I wouldn't have been given this much support if I’d gone to a larger school.
Anything international has always been my passion. In high school, I was interested in history because I saw how US policy dictated how they handled minorities. For me, history is a study of accountability. You can see how our country has responded to issues and how we can become better. I’d like to be an immigration policy advisor, promoting more humane policies.
Growing up, I wasn’t really aware of social justice issues, but here I could explore and be an activist alongside my peers. For me, it was always immigration, but now there is racial justice, climate change, housing disparities.
When I got here, I was immediately introduced to MIPS (Multicultural and International Programs and Services), which is open to anyone. MIPS helps us feel connected and valid. There I met the most helpful mentor ever who taught me to feel confident and to put myself in leadership positions.
I am a 2021-22 Newman Civic Fellow. We are now working on creating a website for undocumented students in rural states so they have a path—a college map—to higher education.
Here, they stress the importance of being ready for the workforce. So through the Center for Community Work and Learning, I got an internship at the Immigrant Law Center. It’s a paid position, which is rare. I’ve also gained a lot of experience through joining the Student Senate. The event planning, organizing and public speaking I do for my job—that’s all been developed through Student Senate.
I think the student population is the most impressive part of ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Kate's. There’s so much solidarity and awareness. The subjects we talk about are never easy, but we go there and hold each other accountable. We apply our academic work to civic action, which I don't think a lot of institutions prioritize. ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Kate’s is full of people wanting to change the world. I'm like that and need people around who are changemakers.
Being around female leaders is inspiring. It’s about empowerment. In high school, I wasn't that vocal, but here, I speak up about issues I care about and am comfortable doing that. I think more schools should follow our all-women model. Outside ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Kates, you're in a world where men are the main voice. Here, you develop your own voice so when you get out in the world, you have that experience.
I think my mom is the happiest with my ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Kate’s decision and loves that I feel safe, comfortable and confident enough to go for leadership positions. She’s really proud I came here.