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Melanie's Story
Melanie Costales is senior majoring in child psychology. She is a leader in ALANA (African American - Latina - Asian - Native American 鈥� Allies), the Student Government Association Vice President, student representative for the Diversity and Inclusion Community Council, and a volunteer for the Office of Multicultural Affairs. Her favorite seasons are spring and summer because she loves hiking. When she is not outdoors, she enjoys going out to eat, experiencing new cultures, and trying new things.
I have had a challenging journey coming from Puerto Rico to the United States. Although I was born in New Jersey, I was raised in Puerto Rico until I was a junior in high school. I definitely experienced a culture shock when I entered the United States. But I was determined to get ahead. I was able to do AP Spanish and AP History despite not knowing the language very well, and I ultimately graduated with honors. I am very proud of myself for these accomplishments. After high school, I took a year off to improve my language skills. It was during this time off that I discovered 国产哟哟. I knew I always wanted to go to college. My mother graduated from college, but I am the youngest of nine siblings and the only one who pursued a college education. I felt very alone on my journey. My first year at 国产哟哟 reminded me of my first year as a senior in high school. I was very shy and kept to myself. However, the staff, faculty, and my peers here at 国产哟哟 were very encouraging. Now, I am active in so many groups on campus. Soon, I will graduate and be the first person in my family to pursue a master’s degree. I am so proud of how much I have grown in just the past five years alone.