Majors: Global Studies, Political Science and Marketing
Minors: Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs
Year in school: 4th year
Hometown: King City, California
Favorite book and why?
My favorite book is ‘I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter’ by Erika Sánchez because it explores the realities of a young Latina woman in modern America while touching on immigration, cultural identity, and mental health. I connected with the book and felt very relatable and heard as well.
Favorite movie and why?
So far, my favorite film is "Coco," which honors authentic and historical Mexican culture and traditions. It depicts Mexican history and customs, such as El Día de Los Muertos. Guanajuato, one of the states from which the director drew inspiration, is where all my family lives which is special to me. It is an inspiring film encouraging people to pursue their aspirations and passions despite hardship.
Why Global Studies?
I started as a Global Studies major and then added Political Science with a business minor at the end of my sophomore year. After taking a marketing class and learning more about international marketing, I decided this last summer to stay an extra year and add a Marketing major. I chose Global Studies because I have always been fascinated by global challenges and the complex processes of globalization. I wanted to better comprehend and learn about the interconnectivity of other nations and cultures and the impacts of globalization. I am interested in diplomacy, international relations, and politics, which I knew would be helpful for law school. Political science was an added one as I wanted to incorporate both perspectives on political systems and their impact.
Some of the most interesting classes I have taken are with Professor Julia Reilly on human rights. Throughout those semesters, I learned much about human rights issues, policies, and history, which has helped me in future classes and research. Someone in another major should choose or add this major because it provides you with a broad and multidisciplinary viewpoint, increased cultural understanding, and critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Global awareness is beneficial in any career you are pursuing, and I believe an advantage in obtaining a position.
What are your extracurricular experiences?
In the summer of 2022, I studied abroad in Brussels, Belgium, for about two months at the Brussels School of Governance (BSoG). I took a course called ‘A Critical Intro to International Criminal Law and Practice: Crimes, Culpability, and Enforcement. The course was my favorite part as it was part of the law school curriculum, which gave me an insight into a law class experience in Belgium. Additionally, I conducted research for Dr. Henrard, an international law professor and director. The research comprised the League of Nations minority treaties, indigenous people, and land rights with the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and AFCHPR cases. My favorite focus point was the dual nationality and the mutual trust within the European Union.
It never crossed my mind to study abroad in Belgium until an advisor presented me with the opportunity. I decided it would be an experience to go somewhere I would never have planned. I have always wanted to study abroad in Europe, and it was the best decision as I got to experience it alone and build on some personal skills. I think it is a fantastic opportunity to do as you learn more about yourself, make new friends/connections, learn about other cultures, and gain a more global perspective.
What are your post-graduation plans?
For my post-graduation plans, I plan to attend law school out of state, specifically in Illinois, New York, or California, to build on some personal qualities and expand my connections. Another post-graduation plan I recently started to think about is getting a masters abroad in Europe and then returning for law school.
