Rivera-Gulley First-Gen Scholarship Award

In a world where dreams are often constrained by circumstance, I stand as a beacon of hope, a first-generation daughter of undocumented immigrants driven by an unyielding determination to make a difference. My path has been marked by resilience, unwavering commitment, and an insatiable hunger for knowledge. Education is the motivation for transformation, and my pursuit of higher learning is a personal endeavor and a transformative journey toward dismantling barriers and building a more equitable society. Growing up in a marginalized community, I witnessed the daily struggles and systemic injustices faced by those around me. Rather than succumbing to despair, I found solace in the power of education. It became clear that education was not just a means of personal advancement but a tool to uplift entire communities and challenge the status quo. This realization ignited a fire, propelling me to pursue higher education with an unwavering sense of purpose. I aim to dismantle the barriers that hinder progress and advocate for equity, ensuring everyone can thrive regardless of background. Recognizing the power of advocacy, I eagerly accepted a Rhode Island governor-appointed position on the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee. I actively contribute to deinstitutionalizing status offenders, advocate for jail removal, and work tirelessly to address the disproportionate minority incarceration rate. By proposing restorative juvenile justice practices and collaborating with local communities and organizations, I aim to create alternatives prioritizing rehabilitation, empowerment, and equal opportunities for all youth. As a Juvenile Justice Bonner Fellow with Rhode Island for Community and Justice, I researched methods of handling truancy, seeking solutions to empower and support these young individuals. Working closely with the Community Ally Coalition, I crafted presentations that fostered empathy and understanding among diverse community members, amplifying often silenced voices. As a Spanish Translator at the Chicago Lights Social Service Center, I have had the privilege of assisting Spanish-speaking asylum seekers who have recently arrived in Chicago. Through my work in resource distribution and organizing essential services, I strive to provide a compassionate and supportive environment, enabling these individuals to regain a sense of stability and hope. Volunteering with Otros Dreams en Acción in Mexico City allowed me to support deported youth. Guiding them as they adjusted to life in Mexico and encouraging their personal growth was a profoundly transformative experience. As Research Assistant for the UTRA Latinx Urban History Course Development project, I collaborated closely with a professor to create a groundbreaking course exploring the history and experiences of Latinx communities. Through my research, I collected valuable resources, developed course modules, and contributed to a more inclusive curriculum that amplifies underrepresented voices. My internship at Valdez & Vilim Law further solidified my commitment to fighting for justice and equality. Through extensive research, I provided crucial information on country conditions to be presented in immigration court, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of legal advocacy. With steadfast determination, my ultimate career goal is to become an immigration lawyer, using my legal expertise to advocate for the rights and dignity of marginalized immigrant communities. My journey as the first-generation daughter of undocumented immigrants has shaped my perspective, ignited my passion for social justice, and cultivated a deep desire to create lasting change. Through my community engagement, research experiences, and aspirations for higher education, I seek to dismantle systemic barriers and advocate for marginalized communities. College represents an opportunity to equip me with the knowledge and skills necessary to effect meaningful change and empower others. With gratitude for the opportunities I have been given, I am committed to making a lasting impact and building a more equitable and inclusive society for all.