As a first-generation student, what was your early understanding of college, and how did programs like Upward Bound shape your path before getting to the University? 

As a first-generation student, I always knew I wanted to go to college, but my understanding of the process was limited. I did not have someone at home to guide me through FAFSA, college applications, scholarships or even how to use college websites.

I joined Upward Bound during the second semester of my freshman year of high school. Through the program, I was able to graduate one year early with my honors diploma.

Upward Bound also introduced me to opportunities I would not have known about otherwise, including my first internship at the Innevation Center. That experience led to a long-term role, during which I was later promoted to Lead Office Assistant. It gave me the tools, support and opportunities to grow into a confident student and leader, and it played a key role in my journey.

Why did you choose to study business, and how has the College of Business helped shape your long-term goals? 

I knew I wanted to pursue law and eventually become an attorney. During the second semester of my freshman year, I realized I was especially interested in real estate or corporate law. I switched my major to business because it offered a strong foundation for that path.

The College of Business has played a key role in moving me closer to my goals. It is an environment that encourages growth and accountability. The professors invest in their students and push them to succeed. I have taken valuable courses with faculty who have shaped how I think and learn. 

I have also been able to apply what I learn in the classroom to my role at a legal practice, where I support work related to real estate and construction defect cases. Since I plan to enter a field that is closely tied to business, this knowledge is essential for my next steps.

When you arrived at the University of Nevada, Reno, what kinds of support or community helped you start to see law school as a real possibility? 

When I first arrived at the University, I was confident in my goal of becoming an attorney, but I was not sure where to start or what to get involved in. That changed when I attended the campus club fair, where I discovered Huellas (Footprints) / La Voz and the Latino Pre-Law Association (LPLA).

After joining LPLA, I quickly realized I wanted to take on a more active role. I became the internal communications officer, where I help with operations, planning, and member engagement. I also recently accepted the role as president for the upcoming school year. LPLA also gave me a clearer understanding of the law school application process, including LSAT preparation and what it truly takes to apply. 

I was also introduced to the Justice Michael L. Douglas PreLaw Fellowship Program, and I was selected to participate in the Summer 2026 cohort. Being selected for this program made law school feel like a real and achievable next step.

Huellas / La Voz also played a key role in my journey by connecting me with an attorney mentor who guided me through the early stages of my career. This program provided me with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience as a legal assistant at a firm focused on real estate and construction defect law, which is the field I hope to enter after graduation.

Due to the support and community I found through these programs, I was not only able to confirm my interest in law but also take meaningful steps toward it. These experiences helped turn law school from a goal into a clear and realistic path for my future.

How have programs like TRIO and the Latino Pre-Law Association influenced your confidence, leadership and sense of belonging? 

Both TRIO and the Latino Pre-Law Association have had a significant impact on my confidence, leadership, and sense of belonging. What once felt unrealistic or out of reach now feels achievable, and I know I am one step closer to reaching them.

TRIO quickly became a strong source of support after I joined at the beginning of my college journey. As I began to seriously consider law school, having guidance made it easier to navigate what once felt like an overwhelming path. 

The Latino Pre-Law Association helped me find a strong sense of community and belonging. Through LPLA, I connected with students who share the same goal of attending law school.

Looking ahead, how has your experience at the University of Nevada, Reno prepared you for a career in law and the impact you hope to make? 

Looking ahead, my experience at the University has prepared me for a career in law by giving me both confidence and a foundation to pursue my goals. As I reflect on my journey, I can see how each opportunity and experience has helped shape the path I am on today.

There is a quote I often remind myself of when stepping into new opportunities: "If you weren’t ready, you wouldn’t have the opportunity, and if you weren’t capable, you wouldn’t have the desire." Throughout my time at the University, this mindset has pushed me to take on challenges, step into leadership roles, and trust in my ability to grow. 

The support from faculty, staff, and campus programs has shown me that success is possible with the right guidance and effort. These experiences have prepared me not only academically but also professionally, through leadership roles, mentorship and hands-on experience.

I hope to use my career in law to make a meaningful impact by supporting others who may not know how to navigate this path. I want to help create opportunities and provide guidance for students who share similar backgrounds and ambitions. For me, success is not only about achieving my own goals, but also about opening doors for others and helping them realize what is possible.