The aspects of my identity that have most strongly influenced my path are my class and
ethnicity, specifically, being working class and Latina. Growing up in a working-class Mexican
family has shaped my values, the way I see the world, and how I define success.
Being part of the working class taught me resilience. I grew up watching my family work
endlessly, and that shaped how I approach everything: I work hard because I’ve seen firsthand
what it takes to survive. It’s a double-edged sword: this mindset has made me determined and
disciplined, but it also means I sometimes view life through a “survival” lens, always thinking
about what I need to do next rather than pausing to appreciate what I’ve already achieved. Still, it
gives me a valuable perspective that many people in positions of privilege lack. I’ve experienced
struggle, instability, and sacrifice firsthand, and that lived experience allows me to understand
social and economic issues on a deeper level. When politicians or leaders claim to speak for “the
people,” I know what it’s actually like to be one of those people. That perspective gives me a
sense of purpose to bring those real experiences and voices into every space I enter.
My ethnicity has also shaped my identity, though in a different way. Growing up in
Mexico, I never really thought about what it meant to be Latina. Everyone around me was
Mexican, so my ethnic identity wasn’t something that set me apart. It wasn’t until I moved to the
United States that I became aware of being part of a minority group. Being Latina here has made
me reflect on how culture, language, and background influence the way people see you and the
way you see yourself.
At a predominantly white institution like Wesleyan, I’ve become much more conscious of
my identity. At times, being one of the few Latinas in a classroom can feel isolating, but it also
gives me a unique sense of pride and responsibility. My background allows me to bring
perspectives and experiences that others might not consider. I’ve learned that my voice matters
not despite my identity, but because of it. Being Latina in this space has made me more aware of
the importance of representation and the value of sharing my story, not only for myself but for
others who come from similar backgrounds.
Ultimately, both my class and ethnicity have shaped me into someone who values hard
work, education, and community. They’ve taught me empathy and resilience, but also the
importance of using my experiences to challenge systems that often overlook people like my
family and me. My identity is something I carry with pride; it has guided my goals, shaped my
values, and continues to determine how I want to make an impact in the world.
