It’s the time I spent getting to know the other contestants on a personal level and building closer relationships that were filled with endless support and positivity.
Throughout my college journey, I have experienced a lot of guilt and that stems from unresolved trauma in my family. My platform was inspired by my personal experience as well as what I have witnessed occurring in the Hispanic community. My platform works to combat first-generation trauma and provide resources and support to first-generation students.
Yes! This year I am involved in Kappa Delta Chi, Sorority Inc. where I hold positions as Stroll Master and Academic Officer. I am also involved in the Hispanic American Student Association as, of course, OU Hispanic Royalty. I decided to join my sorority to find my home away from home and be surrounded by women who would empower and encourage me to strive for what I wanted. My sisters have truly become a source of inspiration and encouragement throughout my time at OU. As for my other involvement, the Hispanic American Student Association has allowed me to stay connected to my culture and meet people who share that same appreciation.
I remember the moment they called my name and how surreal it felt. I was filled with appreciation for my community and ecstatic to know I was given the opportunity to enact my platform. I remember thinking that all my hard work had paid off and I owed it to myself and my community to carry the title with grace.
Being a first-generation student must be one of the most challenging things I have had to do. However, it is also one of the most fulfilling experiences. It has taught me to handle myself with grace and work hard for what I want to achieve. It’s given me the power to self-advocate and take charge of my education journey. I get the opportunity to break barriers and create new paths for my parents. While it feels like an immense amount of pressure, I’m grateful to be first-generation because it reminds me of what I’m capable of and what I have yet to do.
I believe every person I have encountered throughout my time at OU has truly made a difference. One person, in particular, is an OU advisor named Scott Cady. He has truly created a safe space for me to be vulnerable and feel supported through any decision I make in my college journey. He has acted as a voice of reason when I needed one and has helped me progress academically, professionally, and personally.
Meet Mariafernanda Gonzalez and learn about her platform, Mentes Empoderadas.
