---

In 20 words or less, what is the best thing about being part of this department?
The passionate, intelligent, and caring professors who make learning Spanish enjoyable.

What is your biggest piece of advice to first years & sophomores about connecing to this department?
CONNECT WITH YOUR PROFESSORS! The professors are genuinely eager to support students, whether it’s through academic guidance, personal guidance, or advice on career paths. Don’t hesitate to go to the office hours, ask questions, and build relationships; it will make a huge difference in your experience here.

What is something you know now that you wish you could tell your first-year self?
Take classes that spark your interest. Don’t worry about falling behind; first, follow what genuinely calls to you. The rest will fall into place as you figure life out.

What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned at K?
The most valuable thing I’ve learned at K is the power of building connections, whether that be through networking, collaborating with peers, or getting involved in the community. These relationships and experiences will open so many more doors for you. Growth does not happen in isolation.

What has been your favorite class at K?
My favorite class at K was SPAN450 with Professor Valle this past spring. It introduced me to a world of incredibly talented Spanish women artists I hadn’t even heard of before, and it challenged me to grow not just academically, but personally. At first, I found myself comparing my abilities to my classmates and feeling frustrated when the content didn’t click right away. But with my professor’s support, I was reminded that everyone learns at their own pace, and that taking more time doesn’t make you any less capable. Once I let go of that anxiety, I started enjoying the class more, and I began to feel real pride in the skills I had once struggled with. That shift gave me a new sense of confidence as a student.

How have you taken advantage of the open curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
I’m currently double majoring in Biology and Spanish, two course-heavy departments. Thanks to K’s flexible curriculum, I’ve been able to fully immerse myself in both my majors without the worry of falling behind. I also took advantage of the study abroad program, spending two terms in Ecuador while still staying on track with my major requirements. Finally, I’ve taken courses outside of both of my majors, including English, political science, and philosophy, to explore areas I may not have the chance to engage with after graduation.

What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
At K, I have been volunteering with Sisters in Science, an all-girls program where our aim is to inspire young girls to pursue an education and career in the sciences. Additionally, I recently started working at El Sol, a dual-immersion elementary school, as an assistant teacher for students in kindergarten and fifth grade. Finally, I studied abroad in Quito, Ecuador, for two terms on an academic program focused on ecology and evolution.

What is your SIP?
This July, I will travel to Guadalajara, Mexico, to complete my SIP by shadowing doctors across a range of specializations, including pediatrics, gynecology, and surgery. Through this experience, I hope to embark on a meaningful journey of self-discovery. Becoming a doctor has been a lifelong dream of mine, as my mom has always motivated my siblings and I to pursue careers in medicine. The goal of my SIP is to gain a clearer, more personal understanding of what it means to dedicate one’s life to this profession and to see if it is what I truly desire. In addition, I see my SIP as an opportunity to reconnect with my cultural roots. As the proud daughter of Mexican parents, I’m eager to deepen my connection to the culture, explore the city, and experience the life that they once lived.

What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I plan to dedicate time to studying for the MCAT while continuing to gain hands-on experience in the medical field and expanding my professional network. My goal is to enter medical school with a strong foundation, both academically and personally.

What is a random fun fact about you?
While studying abroad in Ecuador, I took a class in macrame, and now I LOVE IT.