Major: MEd, Higher Education in Student Affairs
Hometown: Everett, MA
Campus Involvement: Graduate Assistant, Inclusive Excellence, Education and Training
How has attending a Hispanic and minority-serving institution (HSI-MSI) shaped your college experience?
Attending an HSI-MSI has helped me connect with myself in more ways than I expected. As a bi-cultural, first-generation student with a range of passions, I transferred to Salem State in 2021 after taking a gap year from community college. That move helped bring my dreams into focus. While I considered changing my major, I stayed in education—a field that mixes my love for advocacy and teaching—and it opened many doors for me.
I found a community of like-minded people from different walks of life who were equally passionate about their work, even if our goals differed. As an undergraduate, I was heavily involved on campus and continue to stay engaged as a graduate student in the HESA program. Without the mentorship and encouragement I received from dedicated faculty and staff, I might never have considered a career in higher education.
What does being part of an HSI-MSI community mean to you?
Students from all walks of life are supported through academic and extracurricular opportunities. It means having abundant resources and new ways to measure student success while building a campus climate that fosters growth.
Can you share any experiences where you felt welcomed and included at Salem State?
Coming from a previous institution where asking for help felt burdensome, I felt welcomed from the start at Salem State. Professors and staff here are genuinely interested in supporting you, recognizing your hard work and achievements, and encouraging you to become your best self.
What clubs, organizations, or programs have helped you build community on campus?
As a grad student, I have limited time to participate, but during my undergrad, I was a member of the Educator Scholars of Color program, an undergraduate admissions ambassador, a front desk receptionist and summer housing assistant with residence life, and I served as secretary and later vice president of The Alliance. I also casually participated in LASO (Latin American Student Organization) and the Black Student Union through the Center for Justice and Liberation.
As a graduate assistant for the inclusive excellence office, I collaborate with students, faculty, and staff to create informative and educational programming. I supported the New England Hispanic and Minority Serving Institution Conference and the HSI-MSI Student Leadership Summit hosted on campus. These experiences deepened my understanding of cultural wealth, leadership, and inclusive practices.
How has your cultural background or identities shaped your experience at Salem State?
As a queer, mixed-race person of color, my identities have deeply shaped how I navigate college life. They influence how I approach academics, career aspirations, and community involvement. Sharing my lived experiences in class discussions, advocacy work, and projects has allowed me to highlight intersectionality, equity, and representation.
Engaging in cultural events and dialogues about identity has been affirming. These experiences helped me find my voice and connect with others while encouraging allies to learn more. I believe in the power of storytelling to create meaningful change, and I hope others feel inspired to embrace their identities and share their stories, too.
What academic programs, resources, or support services have helped you succeed at Salem State?
TRIO student support services, the first year experience program, counseling and health services, the Center for Justice and Liberation, the Educator Scholars of Color program, and undergraduate admissions have all shaped me into the leader and practitioner I am becoming.
I didn’t even realize I was a first-generation college student until the summer before my senior year. I was helping a group from Upward Bound visit TRIO and asked what qualifies someone as first-gen. I learned that because neither of my parents earned a bachelor's degree, I did qualify—something I hadn't realized since my late mother earned an associate's. As an independent student supporting myself through minimum-wage jobs, I applied to TRIO and was accepted. Their counseling and support came when I needed it, and I’m incredibly grateful.
What advice would you give prospective students considering Salem State?
Take advantage of the resources and opportunities around you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Make connections. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—we all have to start somewhere. And get involved!