First generation graduate hopes to impact and better lives in marginalized communities

TL;DR

A Harvard graduate shares the story of her undocumented immigrant parents and how it shaped her passion for social justice.

Transcript

Every single thing that I've done has been possible because of my parents, because of my incredible family. My mom is originally from Guatemala City, Guatemala; my dad is originally from Nayarit, Mexico. They both came to the U.S. very very young, on their own, searching something bigger, they wanted to better their lives. One of the biggest reason... Read More

Key Insights

• 👨‍⚖️ Immigrant parents' struggles can fuel a passion for social justice and activism.
• 💠 Personal experiences and hardships can shape an individual's values and principles.
• 💱 Diverse perspectives in educational institutions encourage growth and positive change.
• ❓ Those who have experienced injustice often become advocates for marginalized communities.
• 💯 Core values instilled by family can guide personal and professional endeavors.
• 🧑‍🚒 Nonprofits provide opportunities to fight against inequality and make a meaningful impact.
• 💦 Compassion, humility, honor, honesty, hard work, and perseverance shape the speaker's approach to life.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the speaker's parents' experiences as undocumented immigrants shape her activism?

The speaker's parents' hardships and the injustices they faced motivated her to fight for social justice and equality for all marginalized communities. Their stories served as a driving force in her activism.

Q: What core values did the speaker learn from her family?

The speaker learned compassion, humility, honor, honesty, hard work, and perseverance from her family. These values guide her actions and inspire her to make a positive impact on society.

Q: How does the speaker believe Harvard's diverse student body contributes to its growth?

The speaker believes that diverse perspectives and backgrounds at Harvard challenge the institution to evolve and become more dynamic. Different experiences push for positive changes in the university's policies and practices.

Q: What does the speaker hope to achieve in her career working at nonprofits?

The speaker aims to minimize unnecessary and unjust struggles faced by disadvantaged communities. She strives to impact and improve the lived experiences of others by creating a more equitable society.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker's parents, undocumented immigrants, came to the U.S. in search of a better life, inspiring her passion for social justice.

• The struggles and humiliations her parents faced sparked a desire to challenge injustice and fight for equality.

• Harvard's diverse student body allows for different perspectives to drive growth and change in the institution.