Personal Statement

My passion for social justice orginates from my experience as a Mexican immigrant in the United States. Growing up, my sense of identity has been challenged and informed as a Latina woman in America. My privilege of dual citizenship and ability to communicate across cultures has compelled me to be a voice for those who are voiceless and pay forward the opportunities that I have been given as a University student. In my community I work in solidarity with young students who, like me, arrive from a different culture and must make the challenging transition into the U.S. public school system. On campus, I partner with my colleagues to educate and build awareness among college and high school students about immigration advocacy. My experiences are equally informed by my weekly service and fellowship with diverse communities that adjoin our campus as well as my summer educating Mexican nationals of their rights at Border Patrol Detention Centers, and assisting with identification of detained or missing immigrants. My experiences show me that the fight for justice will be an ongoing process that requires every voice to be recognized, engaged, and empowered. I am committed to being an ally for and with others.