In my final reflection, I leave my undergraduate time with an ample global perspective of the University of Florida. I begin my journey as a student transfer from Santa Fe College with a political science degree that had no main concentration. When I finally came at the height of the pandemic, I ventured into taking a core political class that was focused on the MENA region and found an appreciation and enjoyed learning courses apart from American political science courses. I choose to remain in the same concentration taking 4 more classes focusing on the MENA region until I made my way into my final class on Sub-Saharan Africa through African Politics. I am very thankful for being able to have learned so much knowledge about a geographical area that is very important and has similarities with Latin America.

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Sometime later through completing the completion of the courses, I ventured into Latin America courses that amplified my perspective on world issues. The interest became a main drive to continue the pursuit of the further question of Latin America and the questions that drove about the current environmental issues that have driven conflicts. In a class Comida y Conflicto, I found a passion for Mexican history that pertained to my heritage. My family comes from Michoacan, Mexico and there is a huge avocado industry that is producing a huge market yet impacting the local environment. I completed introductory research in Mexico in 2022 that research allowed me to obtain a seat within UF MALAS to continue the research I have begun.

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Furthermore, being a part of multicultural organizations, like MASA (Mexican American Student Association), CHISPAS, and NaviGator. I have participated in signature events that highlight diversity and culture such as Dia de los Muertos with MASA. As well as being a member working to organize and execute other multicultural events to share with the student body. Additionally, creating workshop events to help other students navigate and learn about resources (CHISPAS and NaviGators). I have found my identity that’s composed of many parts. I will be remaining hopefully involved in advocacy and politics, however, in academia have found a position [Latin American Studies] where I can use the personal knowledge that acquired to make a larger impact.