Jessica Gonzalez
Michigan State University
Jessica Gonzalez is a fourth year student at Michigan State University, who is invested in empowering her community through education to change the higher education trajectory and develop exceptional leaders to govern our country. Her passion to serve others is deeply embedded because of her experiences growing up in south Texas. Throughout her leadership, she has worked in efforts to maximize the opportunities to enhance first generation students' success in college transitions and strived to build an inclusive environment for multicultural democracy on campus while upholding representation for Latinx students.
Personal Statement
Growing up in a border town in the Rio Grande Valley to a resilient community and to immigrant parents who have dedicated their lives to solely support my efforts throughout my education has been my foundation to press for equity in the education system. My home consists of exceptional children and youth who embody the future of our nation but their agency is constrained by institutions and structures. Therefore, I believe it is imperative to infiltrate the education system to improve the education outcomes for all children through effective policy but it is essential to start in the classroom. I continue capitalize on my experiences upon my return to Mission, Texas and continue to engage in opportunities focused on representing Latinx students in higher education
