I am from an extremely small town in the Rio Grande Valley where it is impossible not to run into someone you know at our local gas station. Growing up there has and always will be my primary motivation to seek a brighter future and go above and beyond in life. As a first generation student, I have had ample experiences that have granted me the right to say; it is both a challenge and a blessing to be the first in my family to step foot into college. My family, who immigrated here seeking better opportunities, has made plenty of sacrifices to make my dreams come true. Because of their kind, loving, and nurturing support, it was an easy decision to pursue a career in nursing. Committing to a career in nursing is only one of the many ways I plan on giving back to my community and caring for others. UT has all the resources I need to make my dreams come true, and it will be the foundation for the beginning of a college bound family. At UT, I hope to set high standards as a first generation Mexican American, and show my 8 siblings that anything is possible when you work hard and dream big.

Major:
Nursing 

Honors Program:
Nursing Honors

What drew you to the Forty Acres Scholars Program?
Every ounce of research I did on the Forty Acres Scholars Program mentioned in some way shape or form the community they build and how closely they resembled a family. As a freshman who just ended their freshman retreat, I could not agree more. FASP staff will make Austin your home away from home and comfort you in any situation you may be dealing with. I have only ever interacted with my cohort twice and I already feel like they are my family. It is a constant struggle coming from a small town where family is extremely important and quickly adjusting to a big city full of strangers, but FASP has already made the process so much more enjoyable and comforting. 

What makes your scholar cohort unique?
In the simplest terms: my cohort is relatable. We all come from extremely different backgrounds yet there’s always a unison in energy when we are in a room. We each value each others differences while connecting through our built in family, and I couldn’t have asked for better peers. We bring everything to the table, and I have never experienced such unique people come together and enjoy time together the way we do. 

Favorite FASP Memory
So far, my favorite FASP memory was during our freshman retreat at the bonfire making s’mores. FASP staff had just excused themselves and we stayed out late playing games and getting to know each other. It was so comforting seeing my cohort relax and feel comfortable being themselves in front of each other.