Where are you from?
I am from Manassas, Virginia and my family is from Barranquilla, Colombia.
What was your undergraduate major, and from which university did you graduate?
I majored in Global Affairs with a minor in Spanish and graduated from George Mason University in May 2016.
What are some causes/issues you care about? Why?
I care about Human Rights, and I am most passionate about refugee/immigrant rights. This issue is most important to me because I was raised by two immigrant parents, and I witnessed the sacrifices they made and the struggles they went through to provide for my family. This issue is a hot topic in the news today concerning the families that are crossing the U.S.-Mexican border seeking asylum; I’ve volunteered and have learned the stories of the children who have been separated from their parents. The stories of their families wanting to provide a better life for them is similar to my own story, which is why I have always been passionate about the subject matter and care deeply about it.
What work/intern/volunteer experience do you have and how has it prepared you for your studies?
I’ve volunteered and interned at International and Latino non-profit organizations, such as UnidosUS – the nation’s largest Latino civil rights and advocacy organization and International Justice Mission – a global organization focused on human rights, law and enforcement. Most notably, I’ve served as a Child Advocate at the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights – an organization that promotes the best interests of unaccompanied immigrant children. As a Child Advocate, I volunteered to spend time with and advocate on behalf of unaccompanied immigrant children while they were subject to deportation proceedings. The work I’ve done with these organizations helped me gain a better understanding of the communities I’ve served. In regards to my studies, I can incorporate the knowledge I’ve learned within these organizations into my school work as a Master’s student.
What aspects of Mason made you choose to study here?
One of the aspects of Mason that I love is the diversity on campus. I enjoy attending a university that has a diverse student body and faculty. The professors are passionate about their work, research, and subjects and it allows me to fully enjoy my college experience. The location is also great as it is close to D.C. and allows me to take advantage of the work and internship opportunities available in our nation’s capital.
What do you hope to accomplish while at Mason?
I hope to learn much more in the Global Affairs field and apply what I’ve learned in the past to my studies as a Master’s student. I hope to become more involved in student organizations and work on projects that help the communities.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoying hanging out with friends, exercising, going to the beach, and shopping!
What are you most looking forward to while living in the DC area?
I am lucky that I have lived in the D.C. area my whole life. I love that I can spend my weekends in D.C. exploring the many museums, monuments, and historical sites. D.C. has a lot of cultural activities, entertainment, shopping, and great restaurants that I will enjoy.
What is your favorite thing about being a student?
My favorite thing about being a student is the opportunity to learn and study subjects that I am passionate about. I am able to choose a variety of classes that fall within my interests and explore different subjects that I am curious about to get a better understanding.
Which languages do you speak?
I am fluent in English and Spanish.