Why did you choose your major or program?
Since I can remember, I have had a knack for spotting patterns, particularly those pertaining to people. How people interact within their "inner circle" and in society, why people develop certain habits, and how our health can be affected by these complex relationships with other individuals and within ourselves. Sociology and Political Science delve into these intricacies. The former works to reveal what is behind the curtain of our mind through a social lens, while the latter explores the systems of governance and politics created by the former. Each program complements the other.
What is a fun fact about you that few people know?
I once beat Pokemon Sword in under 36 hours without losing to any gym leaders.
What is your favorite song and why?
Bohemian Rhapsody. I grew up listening to Queen, and this song never fails to lift my spirits when I need it the most. (It’s also fun to dance to!)
What is your current favorite streaming binge and why?
I love Glee. The music, people, drama, and LGBTQ+ representation made me feel like I was a part of their little family.
What is your favorite hobby or activity you like to do in your free time?
Reading historical fiction and thrillers, contemplating writing my own fanfiction, running, and playing tennis.
How have your identities (race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender) affected your college experience?
Being a triple minority—lesbian, Hispanic, and a woman—has taught me to stand up for myself and, in the process, construct a space for others like me. I have learned that having my voice heard is not about being the loudest in the room, or even delivering the most put-together or smart response, it is about knowing how to verbalize my thoughts in a clear and concise manner. As a woman, I have worked to extirpate the many ideologies that society has imposed on me since birth to now be able to see the world through a different perspective and with an open mind. As a person of Hispanic ancestry, I have developed relationships with others of similar backgrounds and taken classes about Central and South American history to further understand my heritage and enrich my identity. As a lesbian, I have cultivated friendships with fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community who provided guidance and a safe space for me and have also worked to pay forward that same kindness and warmth to new LGBTQ+ students.
How do you practice self-care?
I make sure to turn all electronic devices off for at least one hour every day to make time for my family and my puppy, Luna.
How are you adjusting to the "new normal" as we're emerging from this pandemic? Do you have any tips for other students who are going back to college this semester?
I have caught myself responding to people in my head several times and searching for the “raise my hand” function from Zoom (oops!). I would suggest maintaining your pandemic self-care routine and setting doable short-term goals to slowly work your way back into the fast pace of college life.
As a Point BIPOC Scholar, what is your message to other LGBTQ+ BIPOC students?
I won't stop fighting for justice for every single person. You have the freedom to The road ahead is just that, a road. It is not a single person, place, activity, or award. You can turn right, left, or make a U-turn to return to where you started. What you must keep in mind is that you, and only you, are in control of what happens while you are on that road. So, buckle up and have fun!
"Just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong." — Ella Fitzgerald
This post’s responses were submitted by Point BIPOC Scholar Andrea Volcan (She/Her/Hers).
Andrea is currently studying sociology and political science at the University of North Carolina. Read more about the Point BIPOC Scholarship for LGBTQ students program here.
