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In 20 words or less, what is the best thing about being part of this department?
The community!!

What is your biggest piece of advice to first years and sophomores about getting connected to this department?
The biggest piece of advice I would offer first years and sophomores who are interested in connecting with the department would be, make sure to attend K fest! There’s a table for the CES department, and ask as many questions as possible. Also, if you are interested in sitting in on a class and figuring out whether it suits what you’re looking for, go ahead and ask! It never hurts 🙂

What is something you know now that you wish you could tell your first-year self?
Take up space! Attend office hours! Ask questions! Professors always want to hear from their students, create dialogue and provide spaces where students feel comfortable questioning and learning. Embarrassment is a mentality, and it’s holding you back. So reach out even if you’re nervous.

What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned at K?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve taken away from K is the power found within a simple conversation, because you never know where it may take you. I’ve meet people from all ages and all backgrounds at K from simple conversations, and have created close relationships with many faculty and staff from simply asking them about their day. It’s easy to get caught up in the stress that accumulates throughout the year, but creating your own community makes it easier.

What has been your favorite class at K? 
My favorite class has been SPAN 210: Spanish for Heritage Speakers with Dr. Carlos Vazquez-Cruz! He centered the class around Queer Latine literature, and reminded me of my love for creative writing, while simultaneously allowing myself to explore my own identity.

How have you taken advantage of the flexible curriculum or experienced breadth?
I’ve been able to explore Chicanx Studies through the courses offered by the CES and ANSO department.

What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
I have been involved with the Center for Civic Engagement Center since my Freshman year of college, and have had the privilege of being Civic Engagement Scholar and assisting with the El Sol program. I’ve completed a summer CBI through the department as well, interning at Farmworker Legal Services. Currently I hold two on-campus positions, one as a student worker for OSA and as a headshot photographer for the CCPD.

What is your SIP?
My SIP centers around a community mural found back in my hometown of Kansas City, KS. The mural conveys the history of communities within the area, the Native community, the Black community, and the Mexican Migrant community. Through my SIP, I hope to learn more about the intentions rooted in the creation of the mural.

What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
After K my currently plans are to hopefully find a position at a local community organization, get involved even more within community work/advocacy, allowing me to save for graduate school.

What is a random fun fact about you?
I’m a foodie! If food is good, life is good. I would love to run a community kitchen one day that helps with making daily meals accessible for community members.