I am currently halfway through my sophomore year, and so far it has been an awesome experience. Choosing to attend Lewis & Clark College has been one of the best decisions I ever made in my life. I am on the path towards majoring in Hispanic Studies and minoring in Latin American studies. However, I have learned much more than just Spanish literature during this year and a half. I learned to love my culture more than I already loved it, I learned how to socialize with different people, and I learned how to defend my opinions. I have evolved as an individual and become much more independent. I have many things planned for the future and I'm so excited. By attending this school I have opened doors to several opportunities that I wouldn’t have otherwise. In addition, I have opened my eyes and have come to realize what I truly value and care about.
Of course, not everything has been easy, but what I want to emphasize is that it is not impossible. I am young Latina woman with a low economic background, and like I mentioned earlier I am a first generation student. If we take a look at all stereotypes and statistics, I should not be where I am. All the odds are stacked against me. However, here I am and I do not wish to be anywhere else. Programs like SWAG To College are working to get more students like me into and through college, and this makes me so happy. I am proud to be a part of this organization, and I am glad I am able to share my experience.