1. How has your experience as a Goodnight Scholar influenced your leadership approach in MASA?

The Goodnight program provides a strong support system that encourages you to pursue your goals and develop professionally and personally. Thanks to the Goodnight community, the amount of support I have felt is indescribable. I have found myself pushing out of my comfort zone more than I ever expected. One of those out-of-comfort experiences was running for a leadership position at a large university. I came from a high school with a graduating class of only 60 students, where club meetings typically had a maximum of 10 attendees. So transitioning from that to a large university took some adjustment. This meant developing personally through skills like public speaking, time management, planning, and collaborating. All of which are skills emphasized in the Goodnight program through GSP classes, programs, and faculty support.  

2. What inspired you to take on a leadership role in MASA, and what impact do you hope to make? 

Being away from home distances me from my only connection to my culture. Moving from a household that embraces Mexican culture through cooking, dialect, and customs to an environment that lacks all of this takes a toll on one’s identity. What once felt so normal and routine now feels like a privilege. The home-cooked Mexican meals, the weekly trips to the tienda for sweet bread, and the customary celebrations of all the big holidays from December through January—I was so used to all of it and only now realize how much I took it for granted while I lived at home. While embracing culture is indeed a privilege, I believe it’s something that should also be accessible. Taking on a leadership role in MASA meant that I could provide a space for those who feel the same. I want to provide a safe space for students to embrace Mexican culture, whether they identify as Mexican themselves or just want to learn more about the culture.

3. Balancing academics, leadership, and personal commitments can be challenging—how do you manage your time effectively?

I’ve probably given Lofi Girl 90% of its views. I’ve found that the best way to manage my time effectively is by dedicating specific blocks for productivity. This includes scheduling my breaks in Google Calendar, which helps me make the most of my day and limits the time I spend doom-scrolling on my phone. During these focused sessions, I use a Pomodoro timer to ensure I’m giving myself mental breaks, allowing me to produce my best work.

4. What is one initiative or project you’ve worked on in MASA that you’re especially proud of?

Immigrants are the backbone of America, contributing to every facet of society. They provide access to agricultural goods, pour money into the economy, and take on hard labor that is often overlooked by many. Amid the rise of ICE raids, people live in fear of being uprooted from their communities and are afraid to go out. MASA works in collaboration with other campus organizations to host workshops that inform the public on immigrant rights, spread awareness, and empower individuals to advocate for their communities.

A significant portion of essential farmwork is carried out by immigrants, with 68% of farmworkers being immigrants. Alarmingly, only 7% of these workers have obtained citizenship, leaving the majority vulnerable and without legal protections. Protecting the rights of farmworkers and their families has been an important part of MASA’s mission. We’ve not only raised awareness but also taken concrete action to support these communities.

Last semester, MASA hosted a kermes—a lively Mexican celebration featuring delicious food—and successfully raised $1,000 to support farmworkers. As we continue these efforts, MASA remains committed to empowering and uplifting immigrant communities.

5. What advice would you give to students who want to get involved in leadership, both within MASA and beyond?

Start by taking on smaller leadership roles, such as leading a committee or helping organize an event, to build confidence and develop skills. Building relationships with current leaders and asking for guidance is also key, as it opens doors to learning and future opportunities. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—leadership is about growth, problem-solving, and advocating for what you’re passionate about. Whether it’s taking on a bigger role in MASA or exploring leadership positions in other campus organizations, being proactive and staying true to your values will help you make a lasting impact.