Sacred Heart Nativity Schools, Counselor & Alumni Outreach

Family Background: My family came to the United States in the year 2000 from Guadalajara, Mexico. I was 16 years old at the time and not too happy with the change in my life. As the years have passed I have come to appreciate the great blessings that this experience has brought to my life. I have a younger sister that is in her freshman year at Harvard University.

Where I Grew Up: Mexico & San Jose, CA

Pre College Education: I went to a Jesuit school in Guadalajara. When my family moved to the US, I simply transferred to Bellarmine College Prep in San Jose as a junior; a process that I later realized was uncommon. I was privileged to attend such a great school, even though it was only for two years

College Education: In 2002 I started my studies at Santa Clara University. My time in college was marked by periods of hardship in my ongoing process of adapting to life in this country, but also of excitement for all the amazing opportunities presented before me. I loved my experience at SCU, which included everything from interesting classes, meeting incredible mentors and great friends to participating in immersion trips and spiritual retreats. In 2006 I graduated with a BS in Political Science and a minor in International Studies with an emphasis on Latin America.

"Aha" Moment: Witnessing the struggles of migrant families such as mine as they seek better opportunities for their loved ones in this country.

Biggest Challenge To get to College: Finding financial aid to pay for tuition. I was blessed to have been granted a great scholarship after difficult times searching.

Biggest Challenge In College: Working on my thesis during my senior year one was on my greatest challenges, but also one of my greatest satisfactions.

Mentor:My academic mentor at Santa Clara, Eric Hanson, was always a source of encouragement and inspiration. Throughout the years he has become a teacher, mentor, and friend.

Favorite Teacher:One of the best teachers I had in college was a Jesuit priest, Luis Calero S.J. The class that I enjoyed the most was Peoples of Latin American, which provided a socio-political glimpse of the region with a social justice perspective.

Favorite Author:  I am a fan of the Latin American Boom Era authors such as Gabriel García Márquez, Carlos Fuentes, and Mario Vargas Llosa among others.