Personal Statement

Growing up, I witnessed the drive, resilience, and work ethic of the immigrant community. Their vulnerability and susceptibility to unjust treatment fuels my motivation in everything that I do. I am president of the Hispanic Culture Club and the International Student Association where my focus is promoting the diversity, equity, and inclusion of all students on our campus. Off campus, I work at a non-profit organization that provides legal services to detained immigrants, where I have the pleasure of working with families from all over the world. Additionally, I have been working on a research project with a professor examining the impact that COVID-19, detention, deportation, and status uncertainty have on immigrant communities. We will share our findings with anyone working to improve the lives of immigrants and their communities. This work affirms my drive to become an immigration attorney and defend the rights of those who are so vulnerable. As a first-generation college student, Mexican-American woman, I hope to leave my mark by empowering this community that inspires me through their strength and dedication for a better tomorrow. More than anything, what keeps me going is the question that I repeat to myself everyday: “If not me, then who?”