Why did you initially decide to become a Peacock?
I initially decided to become a Peacock because of the TRIO SSS Summer Bridge Program. I applied to 12 different schools and was accepted into all of them, so I had to narrow down my choices. Saint Peter’s University made that decision easy. It was the second to last campus tour I attended, and it immediately stood out to me. Everyone was so kind and welcoming, and I could tell that people genuinely wanted to help me become the best version of myself.
I’m especially grateful for programs like TRIO and EOF, which open doors for first generation students like myself. Through the Summer Bridge Program, I was able to take college classes before starting my freshman year, meet professors, receive mentorship, become familiar with campus, and most importantly, build relationships with other students. The program helped me feel comfortable transitioning into college, and it made me proud to call myself a Peacock!
What is your major and what activities/organizations are you involved in on campus?
My major is business management with a certification in nonprofit management. On campus, I’m involved in the Student Government Association as a Business Senator for the Frank J. Guarini School of Business, serve as a Leadership Fellow for the Center for Leadership Studies, and serve as President of the ALPFA Chapter.
With your background and responsibilities in ALPFA, what does it mean to you to attend a Hispanic Serving Institution like Saint Peter’s?
Being half Mexican and half Ecuadorian, my culture and community are very important to me. Attending a Hispanic Serving Institution like Saint Peter’s has given me opportunities to become more connected to my community and give back through organizations like ALPFA. I saw ALPFA as an opportunity to grow as a leader while also creating a space where other students could feel represented and connected.
As my first major leadership position, I decided to help reactivate the chapter, serve as president, build a new executive board, and establish a new identity for the organization. Our hard work paid off when we were able to attend the National ALPFA Convention for the first time, which was both surreal and rewarding.
One of the sayings ALPFA uses is “ALPFAmilia.” We are more than just a student organization; we are a family. I feel that same sense of family at Saint Peter’s. There is a strong sense of community where we want the best for one another, support each other, and most importantly, care for one another.
How do you define success for yourself and how do you think your education at Saint Peter’s plays into that definition?
I define success by the positive impact I’m able to make on others. I’ve always wanted to help people and give back to my community, and Saint Peter’s has given me opportunities to do that. There are so many ways to get involved, whether through community service with Campus Ministry, volunteering at events, helping with setup, or even assisting with cleanup. Having those opportunities has shown me that success is not just about what I accomplish for myself, but also about how I can use my time and opportunities to help others.
Which of the Jesuit principles (finding God in all things, people for and with others, cura personalis, faith and justice, magis, and for the greater glory of God) do you identify with most?
The Jesuit principle I identify with most is people for and with others. One of the first things I learned about during my freshman year was the Jesuit principles in Dr. Alorbi’s Principles of Management course, and this one has stuck with me ever since. I’m passionate about giving back and helping others, and I believe the best way to show that is through action, whether big or small. The world can sometimes feel dark and unforgiving, but I believe that showing kindness and being there for others can make a meaningful difference.
What advice do you have for any incoming freshman or new students at Saint Peter’s?
My biggest piece of advice is to not be too hard on yourself. Failing a test, messing up on a presentation, or making a mistake does not make you a failure. Failure is part of the process and an opportunity to learn and grow.
Also, there will always be people who tell you that you cannot do something, but do not become that person to yourself. Believe in yourself, have fun, and be who you are. These four years go by faster than you think, so make the most of them. You worked hard to get here, so go forth and set the world on fire!