Admissions

What did you most look forward to about continuing your studies at Lake Forest College?

I really wanted to meet a lot of new people, and I definitely have. I have met individuals from South Africa and all over the world as well as people from across the country. I'm studying international relations, so it's really like international relations inside and outside of the classroom.

Why did you choose Lake Forest College?

I like how close to home it is, and I got a great scholarship. I wouldn't have been here without the Gorter Scholarship. I had offers from other universities and colleges, and I was planning on going there even though I loved Lake Forest College until my admissions counsellor told me the great news about the Gorter Scholarship. Now, I get to be here, and it has changed the trajectory of my education and experience.

What are some ways you stay engaged and involved on campus?

I'm actually president of JUNTOS, which is the male empowerment group for Latinos on campus. I asked a lot of my friends, “Have you seen a group of Latino men walking around campus? A group of three or more, not just two.” And they'd be like, “Actually, never.” And that's something that's unfortunate, but we can fix it, and we're doing that by recruiting more members.

What experiential learning opportunities have you had while at the College?

I'm actually a legislative aide for Illinois Senator Adriane Johnson of the 13th District. I'm actually getting 1.25 credits for being a legislative aide with her office. I would have been doing the work regardless; I just get credit, and that's something that’s putting extra value in the work that I am doing.

What has been your greatest takeaway from your Lake Forest College experience?

Empowerment is one of the biggest things I've gotten from the school. Transferring really emphasized the need for my work as a student activist as well as an advocate for undocumented students and Latino students. I have been able to really push the envelope. I just spoke with the president of the college on Monday, actually, to talk about initiatives. I want to make Lake Forest College a Hispanic-Serving Institute, and that's something that CLC is already.