As first-generation college students, we walk a line no one we know has (ever) traveled. My heritage has always been important to me because it means carrying the strength of my parents and ancestors who faced adversities and obstacles with courage so that I can have more opportunities than they did.

Stockton immediately drew my attention when I saw all the healthcare programs they had to offer... But, most importantly, Stockton allowed me to be a commuter student. This way, I was able to ensure that my sister Wendy had an easier transition to Stockton so that she, too, could continue her academic studies while also maintaining a strong family bond overall!

I want my parents to feel proud of their daughter as I come from a society where girls are not given opportunities to study far from home, especially abroad. It is possible only because of them having faith in me who have sent me here, so far away from them, to fulfill my dreams. I am lucky to have such parents who always supported me in every situation.

What being a first-generation student means to me is that I’m the first in my lineage to do something. I am the first to set an example for my family members. My younger siblings, cousins and even my future children will see me and say, “He was the first to go to college, and I want to be next.” 

Whether it's something small, such as giving advice, or something major, like teaching students how to be able to properly network, I want to take the privilege that Dr. E, First Ospreys and Stockton Esports have given me and empower students who may not have been given the privilege or had the experience that I have, so that I may equip and empower them to advance in their communities and excel in their careers.

I just feel like being able to work (with) the Dean of Students has been one of the best opportunities I have received at Stockton because it's honestly changed my college experience a lot – a lot more than I expected that it would... I've met so many people who have been impactful in my college experience simply by working at the offices that I've been able to work at.

You know, after graduating from Stockton, I look forward to finding ways to advocate for marginalized, underserved and misunderstood communities. Everyone has a story – some full of happiness but others full of pain – and I want to be in a position where I can help them through their journey of self-discovery like my mentors did for me.

I founded the Honduran Student Association (HONSA) for Honduran/Honduran American students at Stockton University to address the need for more diverse Latino representation. To promote broader Latino representation on campus, I believe student leaders from all three of the Latino-based organizations must lead by example, working collaboratively to represent our diverse identities.