What is your current role? How would you describe the work that you do?
I am the Executive Director for Student Experience and Inclusion at Dominican University. I oversee three units that focus specifically on ensuring that the overall experience of our students is positive, inclusive, and leads to their success.
What was your Chicago Scholars experience like?
My experience with Chicago Scholars was quite positive. I remember feeling fortunate to have the support of mentors across the city who wanted me to succeed and being very lucky to have early access to college admissions and financial aid packages. It helped my family and me make a decision on where I would attend college.
How did Chicago Scholars support you to be the person you are today?
Chicago Scholars helped me develop a sense of paying it forward. I understood that my success was not solely due to my effort, but also the support of my family, my teachers, and my mentors.
What advice would you have given yourself just after being accepted into the program? What advice do you have for current Scholars?
The advice I would have given myself is to lean into the mentors a little bit more. As a first generation student, I did not always understand how to engage with mentors and advisors, so I may have left a lot of support on the table without realizing how valuable of an opportunity I had. Ultimately, the support and guidance I received served me well and it inspired me to mentor other youth now that I am a professional in higher education.
What does being from Chicago mean to you now?
I was born in Mexico and my parents immigrated to the Pilsen area when I was 2 years old. Being raised in Chicago means a lot to me as I was able to attend schools with culturally relevant curricula, and with teachers and peers who understood my culture. I am forever grateful to this city and I am so happy to be back here working in education.
What do you wish people knew about Chicago Scholars, as well as the city of Chicago?
I hope that people understand the wealth of knowledge and cultural richness that our Chicago Scholars and their families bring to educational communities.
