A Graduation to Remember

For many UH students, the month of May will signal a new beginning as they graduate to become “forever coogs.” We recently sat down with a soon-to-be “forever coog” whose story reminds us that dreams can come true.

Q: What prompted your decision to attend UH?
A: Strangely enough, my father worked with quite a few UH alumni who were very successful in their careers. He always encouraged me to consider attending UH. One day, I went to visit one of my friends who was attending UH and was immediately drawn to the diversity that existed on campus. I had not noticed this type of diversity at the other colleges that I had visited. I believe that UH is a true reflection of what our city represents.

Q: Why was attending UH so special to you?
A: I am a first generation college student so the fact that I was going to be the first one in my family to receive a higher education means the absolute world to my family and me. I remember my father crying when I graduated high school. I can only imagine how he will feel when I graduate from UH.

Q: Do you feel any sense of pressure being a first-generation college student?
A: Yes. I am getting a great education, not only for me, but for my family as well. This is not just my struggle. I want to take what I have learned and lobby for organizations that promote diversity in the workplace and work to ensure underserved communities are better represented.

Q: How did you parents stress the importance of education when you were a child?
A: Both my mother and father always placed my education as their number one priority. They always told me that I could be anything I wanted with a good education. I remember going to El Salvador when I was young and seeing how many women did not have the opportunities that I had been given in terms of education. I realized then how fortunate we are to live in a country where education is valued.

Q: How have you been impacted by philanthropy?
A: Last summer, I received the Richard Murray Endowed Scholarship that is awarded to political science undergraduate students who show a passion for politics and public policy.

Q: What opportunities did your scholarship afford you?
A: Through the Richard Murray Endowed Scholarship, I was able to study in Washington D.C. while assisting U.S. Texas Representative Sheila Jackson Lee. During this time, I participated in numerous leadership and community service events. These experiences gave me the confidence to refine my skills, network and tell my story.

Q: What do you consider to be your most cherished memory at UH?
A: I would have to say that I will always remember my history class where I was able to share my opinions and contribute to the conversation. We would discuss immigration and assimilation issues, and I would tell me family’s story. I felt I was living the history we were studying.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish graduation?
A: I recently applied to graduate school at UH, where I would receive a Masters in social work and public policy. My experience in Washington D.C last summer strengthened my network of contacts so I feel confident that I can pursue my career of choice down the line. The scholarship that I received has paved the way to a great future.