Valerie Herra
Valerie is grateful for the support system she has from her mom and dad. Being in college is stressful, and being an only child has some added pressure, especially as a first-generation college student.
Valerie never thought much of the fact that she is first-generation. “I didn't really think much of it until I came to college. Here it started to be a part of who I was.” Her parents were very supportive of her decision to go to college. In fact, there was no question whether she would go or not. Her parents are custodians and they have pushed her to get a degree so she could have an easier life in the future. “I couldn't let my family down. I think it'd be unfair if I had the opportunity, an opportunity that they didn't have, and not take advantage of it.” Valerie’s parents immigrated from Costa Rica to the U.S. to give her a better life than the one they had. Her entire family is still in Costa Rica and she had the opportunity to spend her first ever Christmas with them over winter break. “Everyone’s so proud that they have a granddaughter in college. I do it all for them.” One of her family members that she relates the most to is her uncle. |
“The only person that really understands me is my uncle. I wish I could talk to him in person all the time.”
During her spare time, Valerie volunteers for a non-profit organization called Jumpstart where she works with children ages 3-4 years old to help them expand their knowledge through reading and other activities. She is also a member of the Residence Hall Association for Bourgeois Hall.
“I love it because I get to be a part of something small that will turn into something big by having people socialize with each other and bring people together in the building!”
“I see everything as an opportunity for me to be what my parents couldn't be. I think it's a privilege, and I'm very happy that I'm here.”
During her spare time, Valerie volunteers for a non-profit organization called Jumpstart where she works with children ages 3-4 years old to help them expand their knowledge through reading and other activities. She is also a member of the Residence Hall Association for Bourgeois Hall.
“I love it because I get to be a part of something small that will turn into something big by having people socialize with each other and bring people together in the building!”
“I see everything as an opportunity for me to be what my parents couldn't be. I think it's a privilege, and I'm very happy that I'm here.”