Student Stories

I am half Puerto Rican and half Dominican and I try to make my “latinidad” a big part of my identity…Let your supporters and loved ones know that you’re struggling. They are there to guide you when you’re in the dark and the sooner you act, the sooner you’ll see improvement.

Having safe spaces where you can interact with people that may or may not look like you, and engage in conversation and activity, makes you feel big at a smaller school.

I was challenged to experience learning more dynamically in and out of the classroom followed by attaining leadership and interpersonal skills. It [DUS-ES] has taught me that it is okay to accept my failures because they’ll serve as stepping stones to striving for greatness in my college life, and I have the willpower to be resilient, no matter what the circumstance may be.

My DUS-ES meetings with all of my peers and advisors were very impactful to my growth as a student, leader, and person. The friendships I made from DUS-ES turned out to be some of my closest friends, which in turn helped guide me to where I am today.

As a college student transitioning into adulthood, I believe it is imperative to involve yourself within your community to ensure that you are an asset by being able to work well with people of all levels and by being a leader with a diverse background. From my involvement in the Penn State community, I have a seat at the table and I use my voice to provide ideas to enhance the college experience, holistically, for students of color and to provide sustainable solutions for issues that students of color may face.  

I believe all viewpoints should be heard and that everyone should feel like they can contribute and feel like they belong.

Penn State has taught me a lot about myself. Penn State has also given me lots of opportunities to grow as a student and become a better person.