"You are the author of your story and you decide where you go."
I am a true believer that sharing our stories deeply transforms us, changes the narrative of our community, and heals the world. The #Shareyourstory series is dedicated to highlighting diverse stories of Latinx individuals making a significant difference in their community. Learn more about Claudia's story below!
Pronouns:she, her, hers
Work Title (s) : Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies, University of Texas San Antonio
Favorite Quote:“Chiquitos pero inteligentes.” Mi papá José García
Who is Claudia? It took me a long time to fully embrace and honor my Mexican immigrant, first-generation, ESL, farmworker, mestiza identities. I was fed lies that the combination of the aforementioned identities was a formula for failure. Yet, I was fortunate to have hard working parents that taught me how to laugh in the face of adversity. After momentarily dropping out of high school, I returned with my goal set on graduation. I began to develop faith and confidence in my own skills and abilities aunque no fue fácil.My purpose in life is to live in a way that honors the gifts and talents of others, to see beyond differences, and actively knock down barriers in order to build bridges. I seek to be the best I can be and to make my family proud.
Did you attend college? If so, how did that impact your life? Yes, I went to Oregon State University (which I LOVE) for my BS and BA. It was there where I began to believe in myself and honed in on my love for social justice, equity, and education. I also realized that raza was not represented in the faculty ranks and I decided that someday I would become a faculty member. I attended Seattle University for my masters and the University of Texas Austin for my Ph.D.
What has been the biggest challenge you have had to overcome? The imposter syndrome (having a false sense that I am not good enough – ever). It took me some time to realize that my scholarship comprised a unique fusion of social justice and equity that challenged the status quo in higher education research. Although my research (interdisciplinary and centered around AfroLatinidad in higher education) is not always embraced by “traditional scholars” I believe in its meaningful contributions to a more critical assessment of Latinidad in higher ed. It still feels like a dream to be a faculty member at a research institution. I constantly battle the imposter syndrome but I know I am needed in this field and am grateful to be doing what I love.
What is the one thing you are working on daily? Conducting research, writing, and reading (lots!).
One piece of advice you wish someone would have given you during college or professional career? When doors close and windows don’t open, create your own escape. You are the author of your story and you decide where you go.
What is your favorite kind of coffee? Café con leche
En Solidaridad,
Araceli
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