What is your hometown? Pomona, CA

What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? Chaffey College, A.A.
Cal Poly, Pomona, B.A.
Claremont Graduate University, M.A., Ph.D.

What motivated you to go to college? Seeing my single mother struggle financially, emotionally, and socially with a high school diploma and no security.

Describe your college experience as first-generation. Lost, lonely, seeking connection and identity validation. Much stress over math and no help from family. I found escape from depression in reading and writing so English and World Languages as a major was my salvation.

What unique challenges did you face? Reading challenges, imposter syndrome, fear of ridicule from not speaking Spanish well.

How did you overcome those challenges? I kept imagining walking across the stage to pick up my diploma and how it would feel to be a teacher in my own classroom. I also wanted to prove some of my family wrong who thought I could not do it.

What did you advise other first-generation students? Find help if you struggle. Believe that you are creating your own future every moment you show up for yourself; your learning journey is yours and yours alone. Take your time and live every moment to the fullest; rewards come from struggle and reflection. Don't let anyone define your identity for you and be open to change. Remember you will have other 7 jobs or careers so plan on change being a part of your future.