I am a second semester student and work as the International Peer Advisor for LER. I’m from Summit, IL. My parents both immigrated to the United States from Mexico when they were both 18. I not only grew up, speaking Spanish at home and learning English in school, but I also developed a curiosity to learn about different cultures. This curiosity led me to study abroad for a semester in Granada, Spain during my undergrad. My experience abroad made me realize how challenging it can be to live in a foreign place.
I took this past fall semester off to participate in a seven-month co-op with GE Lighting, in Cleveland, OH. The co-op was a great experience that allowed me to strengthen my HR knowledge and learn more about HR hands-on. During my undergrad, I was a mathematics major, and had lots of previous experience, recruiting and interviewing students for jobs with Campus Recreation and the Illini Union. This summer I will be interning for PepsiCo virtually in their Frito Lay division.
As the International Peer Advisor I get to meet our international students and learn about their cultures while getting to use my experience to help them with job/internship prep. I get to help our international students with resume reviews and mock interviews. I am also a resource to our students by helping them practice their English or providing tips for life in the states. I truly admire the dedication international students put into their studies, considering English is not their first language and they have tackle the obstacles of living in a new country, far away from the place they call home.