Here’s to the lighthearted moments that make the college experience special
As a high school student, I imagined college to be a strictly serious environment, as it marks a pivotal time where many are transitioning into adulthood, undergoing a lot of self-discovery, and so much more. Therefore, coming into Harvard, I expected the next four years of my life to be dedicated towards preparing for life after college. Spoiler alert: this is not completely true.
Although Harvard does foster many spaces where I am able to continuously grow academically, professionally, and personally, Harvard has also shown me the beauty of appreciating the small joys that have made my college experience so very special! Here are a few of my favorite memories so far:
Trying Mike’s Pastry for the first time!
Upon arriving at Harvard, my host family invited me out into Boston’s North End. For the first time, I heard about Mike’s Pastry and their must-try cannolis. Seeing how crowded their North End location was made me realize their popularity, and I knew I had to give it a try! Luckily, there's a Mike's Pastry located in Harvard Square, so I was able to end my night with a tasty pastry. Long story short, 10/10 experience.
RAZA Trailblazer Award: Grupo Frontera and Christian Nodal
Within my first month at Harvard, I came across RAZA, the undergraduate student organization for Mexican and Mexican-American students; one of their very first events that I attended was their presentation of the 2023 Trailblazer Award to Mexican-American band Grupo Frontera. One year later, I would witness singer-songwriter Christian Nodal be granted the 2024 Trailblazer Award. It has been an honor to be in the presence of both musical artists who I love and admire and I can't wait to see who they bring to campus next!
Celebrating my First-Generation Low-Income Identity
Every Fall semester, The Harvard Foundation for Intercultural and Race Relations hosts a week dedicated to students on campus who identify as First-Generation and/or Low-Income students (FGLI Visibility Week). Growing up as an FGLI student, there were very few spaces where students like myself could talk about our experiences or feel recognized. My freshmen fall marked the first time I came to learn and celebrate First-Gen Day!
Latinas Unidas at the Students Organization Fair
Also held at the beginning of Fall semester, hundreds of student organizations come together to represent their organization(s), allowing students to learn more about them. This year, as a board member of Latinas Unidas de Harvard College (LU), I was able to spotlight and share our events, our mission, and our impact on Harvard campus with new and current students!
Apple Picking
As a fun excursion, my host family and I went Apple picking because what better way to welcome chilly October than with some fresh apples and cider?!
As I continue to make fun memories inside and outside of campus, I’ll definitely say that it's the little moments that remind me how unique the college experience is. For me, it's these highlights that make me appreciative of the opportunities and experiences during this time in my life.
