Latina Student Analysis

As a first-generation Latina student, I was significantly influenced by the Student Affairs staff at my undergraduate institution. When I arrived to Ramapo College I realized I was not prepared for college-level work, if it was not for the Educational Opportunity Fund Program I would have felt lost and would have struggled both academically and financially. My mother did not have the opportunity to graduate from high school or earn her GED because she had to work at a young age to help my grandmother in the Dominican Republic. Seeing my mother’s leadership, work ethic, and sacrifices gives me the fuel to one day have a better life by earning my Masters degree and making a difference in my community. Throughout my undergrad career I have had …show more content…
I recall how my Resident Assistant and my Graduate Residence Director made a difference in my life, and I am grateful for them. In turn, it is essential for me to be available to residents by mediating problems and empowering them through the best four years of their lives. While responding to noise complaints and lockouts for my fellow residents while on duty at two in the morning is not my idea of a fun night, deep down I knew I was helping someone. During my junior year, I quickly came to the realization that I enjoyed what I was doing and wanted to continue being involved in student affairs even after I graduated with my bachelors. The two in the morning calls, roommate mediation sessions, and monitoring budgets for programs became more significant in my life. As the Assistant Residence Director for senior housing, I have the ability to impact the lives of students, and I take my role very seriously. In my position, I have noticed how academic integrity is extremely vital to the integrity of the institution. I have also learned how behavioral and alcohol concerns become a student development conversation and a retention …show more content…
If accepted, the CSA program will allow me to build upon my experiences in higher education and advance my knowledge of theory and practices. I believe I have the values the division of Student Affairs in Rutgers University possess. I am competent and capable of excelling in the future that lies ahead of me, despite the obstacles that are present for me as a first-generation student. I have made a conscious effort to become a campus leader by upholding the highest standards and principles. I strive to lead by example and have made it my passion to cultivate transformative experiences that challenge students to be their