In which program are you enrolled and when is your expected graduation date?
Human Rights & Sustainable Development, Pre-Law track at Columbia College.
What is your research focus? What drew you to this particular issue/set of issues?
I am doing research on the Genovese Crime Family on the New York Waterfront. As someone who wants to go into criminal law, this is a great way to shed light on the evolution of crime, specifically racketeering, in New York, and social factors as well as governmental failures and successes that allowed it to thrive for years.
Where did you grow up? In which countries and/or cities have you lived?
Chihuahua, Mexico and Bridgeport, California, US.
What is a must-read for a human rights student?
All About Love by bell hooks.
Can you describe any volunteer or extracurricular activities that you have been a part of during your time at Columbia and how this experience has impacted you?
I worked for Columbia Global as a Displaced Scholars Program intern, which has shaped my skills in further advocating for equal opportunity in white spaces.
What has been your favorite moment in the program so far?
Conducting labor law compliance reports.
What are your goals (professional or academic) after graduation? Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
My goal is to become a criminal defense lawyer.
What is your favorite spot to study (or spend time) on campus?
Low Library
What is one thing that your peers would never guess about you or might find surprising?
I have lived in 5 different cities.
