Q: Can you tell us about your role at the University of Chicago and provide a brief description of what you do?

As a Campus Inclusion Fellow at the Center for Identity + Inclusion within the Student Support Services office, I support students as they navigate their journeys at UChicago. My work primarily focuses on the experience of first-generation, lower-income, immigrant, and undocumented graduate and professional students. I engage with students through various programs, from wellness workshops and community-building events to treks that connect students with the vibrant Chicago community and the impactful work of our local partners. My role is all about creating spaces and opportunities that help students thrive and feel a strong sense of belonging.

Q: How long have you been with the University of Chicago, and what drew you here?

I’ve been a staff member here for a year now. Working at UChicago is particularly meaningful because it allows me to support students in the same way I was supported and in ways I would have appreciated. The support and inclusion I experienced from the staff and the FLI student community during my time as a student left a lasting impact on me. It’s not always easy, but having a community that looks out for you means the world, and being able to offer that same level of care and support to others means everything to me.

Q: What are some highlights of working at the University?

One of the highlights of working at UChicago is the incredible team I’m part of. I’m surrounded by passionate, talented, and dedicated individuals who inspire me every day. As a new professional in the field, I’m constantly learning and growing, gaining valuable insights into the field and what it means to do this work. I also deeply value the collaboration in student affairs work. It’s exciting to connect with new teams, learn about their work, and explore ways we can combine efforts to enhance student support. Ultimately, one of the greatest highlights is the joy of supporting our students and making a positive impact on their experience here at UChicago.

Q: How did you become interested in working in Diversity & Inclusion?

Growing up as a woman of color and FLI, navigating spaces that were unfamiliar, unwelcoming, and full of barriers was a regular experience, especially in my education. My own challenges made me realize early on that I wanted to work with communities whose voices are underrepresented, underserved, and undervalued to help change this reality. It was through my educational journey, finding supportive mentors and a sense of community, that I discovered my passion for doing this work in higher education.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about your work?

One of the most rewarding parts about my work is seeing a student thrive. There’s nothing like seeing the positive impact of community, resources, and support. Seeing students feel confident and happy and hearing about all the amazing things they are achieving is what makes this work special.

Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I love diving into a game or binge-watching a good series. Exploring new worlds through TV and gaming is how I unwind and have fun. I also really enjoy spending time with my cats— they’re incredibly cute and cuddly, especially my older fur baby, she loves cuddles. These are some of the activities that help me recharge and bring a lot of joy to my life.

Q: Can you share a bit about a project or initiative you are currently working on?

One of the programs I am working on is Budget Bites, a series of workshops aimed at addressing food insecurity and community building. Budget bites includes multiple sessions that talk about topics such as managing grocery expenses, meal prepping, and cooking on a budget. Workshops like “Groceries on a Budget” and “Meal Prepping” provide students with strategies for shopping affordably and making the most of their ingredients. Our “Cooking with SSS” virtual sessions allow students to cook together, implement learned knowledge from previous workshops, and share tips.

Q: How do you see your work impacting the broader University community, particularly in terms of inclusion and diversity?

My work focuses on reducing barriers so students can truly flourish on campus. By ensuring they have the support they need, students feel more confident as leaders and sharing their ideas and perspectives. When students from all backgrounds feel safe and empowered to contribute, it makes the overall student experience much better. The University can’t be truly innovative, collaborative, thoughtful, and inclusive, without ensuring that every student has the resources and support needed to succeed.

Q: How does your personal background as a first-generation student shape your approach to supporting others?

As a first-generation student, I’ve faced the challenges of navigating college without a clear roadmap. I understand how daunting this can be, and I also know how much easier it becomes when you have someone to navigate with you. My own experiences help me connect with students, but it’s the approach of actively working through these challenges together that truly makes a difference. This collaborative support is something I have valued deeply in my journey, and I draw on this in my work.

Q: How has your experience as a UChicago alum shaped the way you connect with and support current students?

Being an alumna gives me the opportunity to reflect on what has worked well and identify areas for growth. Having been through the academic and social journey here myself, I bring a personal understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that students face. This insight allows me to offer more empathetic and relevant support, bridging the gap between past my experiences and current needs.