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Welcome to the World
I was born and raised in Dallas, TX. Both of my parents are Mexican and came to the United States to seek a better life and opportunities at a young age. Knowing that my parents risked their lives for a better one has made an influence in my life. I learned to appreciate all their hard work and struggles. I consider myself very fortunate to be the first generation in this country. Being a Mexican-American means to me that I can be influential to other generations. -
La Familia
This picture shows my mothers' side of the family. I come from a very large family, where growing up we always got together for any celebration. My grandparents are still alive, and when they see their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, they see that the seeds they cultivated have expanded more. My grandparents are a huge influence in my life, they've taught me my roots and the importance of family. To this day we continue to get together for special celebrations. -
Siblings
I was the only child for five years. My first sister was born January 9th, 1994 and my youngest sister was born August 22nd, 1995. From the moment that I became an older sister, I knew that I had a huge responsibility. To this day my sisters have made an impact on my life. They make me want to be a role model to them. Everything I've accomplished I can say I owe it to them. In my culture, the oldest is known to be almost a parent to their youngest siblings. -
Mexican Roots
My parents always made it clear to us that knowing where you came from can be an essential part of your life. I have to say that I agree with them. Growing up, we would travel to Mexico to celebrate the Holidays. Being part of that experience has taught me valuable things. The traditions and celebrations have helped me connect with my roots. Now I try to incorporate some of those traditions to my family when celebrating a Holiday. -
Elementary
I consider grade school to have made an impact on my life growing up. Because my parents are Mexican, my first language is Spanish. I remember struggling to learn to speak English and to communicate with my teachers. I believe that my struggle took me a long way. Now I can communicate in both languages and see how influential being bilingual can be. -
High School 2003-2007
High school was a part my life where I was exposed to diversity and culture. I learned so much from my peers during this time. I remember not being afraid to make new friends no matter their background. I remember on a particular occasion; a new student started to make conversation with me. He had just transferred from New York; he shared how different it was to him and how his school was over there. I appreciate how open he was and how I might have helped him feel welcome to our school. -
Becoming a young woman
Coming from a traditional Mexican family; celebrations were an immense part of our culture. A special celebration that I was part of was celebrating my 15th birthday. In my culture, quinceañeras are a celebration to young girls transitioning from a child to a young woman. This event helped me understand how important traditions are and the meaning of entering womanhood. -
College Graduation
I remember my dad telling me, how important education was to him. His highest form of education was high school, he was fortunate to attend college but did not complete a degree. He had to make the decision of coming over to the United States for a better life. My mother's highest education was grade school. The day I graduated I broke a cycle. I prove to myself that if I can do it anyone can. This memorable day lives in me and allows me to be others influence. -
Bilingual Teacher
Since I can remember, I've always wanted to become a teacher. I wanted to impact others' lives and help them succeed. That dream came true, and now I'm a Bilingual teacher. I consider myself fortunate to work with bilingual students because of my background I feel that I can connect with them. Not only being able to speak the language but culturally I know that I can understand most of my students. -
Joining Lives Together
In this picture, I can see pure happiness as I joined my life to my significant other. My husband has been and will be the person that has influenced my life in many aspects. He has taught me to be a better person and to want to strive for better things. He and I stand clear of our backgrounds and traditions. We incorporate traditions because they remind us of where we came from and our roots. We want to continue and teach our children the importance of maintaining our culture traditions alive. -
Two plus One
The day we brought our son into this world, it gave us the opportunity to make an influence in his life. As he grows, it captivates us to want to be role models for him. I believe that he can be capable of achieving great things. I want to teach him the values and morals my parents taught me growing up. How one must struggle to reach a reward. To believe in oneslef and to never forget what his roots are.
