Major: International Studies / Spanish

Hometown: Milan, MI 

Where did you transfer from? Washtenaw Community College 

Why did you choose to transfer to the University of Michigan? I chose Michigan because of the opportunities and the supportive community here that pushes you to be your best self . When I was in the transfer process the LSA Transfer Bridges team was very helpful and one of my Washtenaw professors really encouraged me to apply because of the value of the opportunities that come from U-M. These reasons really made me realize that I wanted to attend U-M. 

Based on your personal experience, what is the one thing you want to tell new transfer students? There will be times where you could feel overwhelmed, stressed, and where you could think “is this even worth it”. But remember, you deserve to be here. Remind yourself where you were before and where you are now, continue to push to be the best you can be. Never forget where you came from, and all the work that you put into getting here. 

How did you make friends and meet other students on campus? I joined the Alexander Hamilton Society which is a club that fosters debates, discussions, and activities relating to foreign policy. The main objective of the club is to give experience to students wanting to get into future leadership positions in the fields by exposing them to a wide variety of different perspectives and issues that are happening around the world, challenging students to think with an open mind. Here I was able to meet students with shared interests of mine where I found it way easier to make friends. I think it is very beneficial to join a club here, and there are a lot to choose from.  I also would hang around the Transfer Student Center too because there I found students with similar experiences as me and it made me more comfortable to talk. 

What is your favorite part about being an LSA transfer student? My favorite part is the unique community that you are a part of when you transfer here. There is a very diverse group of transfer students who come from all walks of life, and I love hearing their experiences and how they came here. And they all lift each other up in a way and it makes me feel more confident as I navigate through my classes. 

What do you know now that you wish you had known before transferring to the University of Michigan? I am a commuter student, so I wish I knew more of the routes and inner workings of the bus system so that I can feel less intimidated when I use it. It is also very important to carry appropriate items in your car like an umbrella or an extra pair of socks. Sometimes the weather will surprise you so you have to be prepared on a short notice. 

Why did you choose your specific major(s)? I chose my majors because I wanted to follow my passions. I love history, travelling, meeting new people and trying different foods. Since a young age I have always been obsessed with how the government works because my father works in the federal government. Combining all those factors led me towards an International Studies degree in hopes to one day work for the Department of State as a Foreign Service Officer. I want to be able to positively represent the U.S abroad and bring positive impacts to countries abroad. I chose to combine this major with Spanish because I have family that came from Mexico and I was never was able speak Spanish past a basic level, so I want to overcome that obstacle and become fluent–plus Foreign Service Officers often speak multiple languages.