Latino Student Exploration Day

Alumni Pamela Castillo-Herrera ’19   

I am excited to be able to share my experiences at IUP as a first-generation college alumni. I was in the class of 2019 from IUP. I majored in criminology, and I am from a small town, Kennett Square, located outside Philadelphia. 

I still remember being excited and scared about going to IUP. I was excited to explore and be independent but I was scared about fitting in. At first, it was hard, but IUP does a great job at coming together and setting up events for students to show up and find what they are interested in. For example, IUP day is a great day for all the clubs and organizations to come to the KCAC (Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex), and for students to come out and see what they are all about. Being involved on campus is the way you will find people you have things in common with—and more likely you will find your home away from home. 

To find your home in the university, you have to become involved. For me, I found that home with my sorority sisters. Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority Inc. gave me that family I was looking for at school. It gave me leadership opportunities I was able to take into my career. It gave me a social network, friends for a lifetime, and beautiful memories I will cherish forever.

I was also a member of the Hispanic Heritage Council, where I was able to work closely with professors. The Hispanic Heritage Council brought programs and awareness to the campus about topic that were happening in the Latino community. I was also a part of Ritmo Latino Dance Crew, where I was able to have fun, learn salsa and bachata, and connect with other students from all backgrounds who love to dance. With all my involvements, I gained friends and leaderships skills. 

However, remember with all the fun found at IUP, it is important to attend all your classes. Just like you are getting involved on campus, you should also get involved in class. This is the best way to become successful in them. Do not be scared to ask for help. Most likely, you will not be the only one feeling the same way. 

People always say your college years are the best, and they go by fast. Which now that I am on the alumni side, I can say it is true. These next four years, remember to learn, grow and have fun. I am positive IUP will be that same home away from home as it was to me and many more other IUP alumni. 

Current Student Penelope Rodriguez 

Deciding to attend IUP was one of the most impulsive decision I have ever made, yet I regret nothing. Being a first-generation student was scary, I did not know what to expect or how being so far from home would affect me, but I took a leap of faith and have not looked back since.

I am currently a senior majoring in Human Development and Family Relations with a minor in Special Education. IUP has forced me to get out of my comfort zone. Attending this school, I did not know anyone. I was naturally an introvert and my only solution for that was getting involved in and around campus. My biggest accomplishment was joining Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority incorporated. Not only did this organization expose me to so many individuals, but it also gave me the opportunity to get involved on campus through programs and community service. It has also taught me to be more professional and take leadership head on.

College is not all about organizations and clubs. However, if I could give incoming freshmen advice, it would be to join clubs and become involved, because there is where you will find your people and passion.

I am grateful to receive the education that I am at this school. The environment is phenomenal and very motivating. I have had so many influencers within my major alone. I am also grateful for all of the relationships I have made while being here. 

Juan Gonzalez

Over the last two years, I have realized that IUP is truly my home far away from home. I am a Crimson Hawk at heart. Everything, from the professors who teach us to the many organizations on campus, has made my time at IUP unforgettable. I have grown tremendously and that is thanks to everything IUP has offered me.

Although many might not like it, accounting was definitely the major that spoke to me. I took four years of it in high school and fell in love with it. I continue to learn more about it at IUP, thanks to the tremendous professors at Eberly and the Business Honors program. The Business Honors program has provided me with many amazing opportunities to network, as well as a cohort that feels like a family to me. While studying accounting, I became interested in the technology that is used in the field and quickly realized that it is an essential skill that I could pick up during my time at IUP. With this realization, I asked around Eberly and stumbled upon Management Information Systems (MIS). I added it as a second major, and, with this, I am on track to get my Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification.

Besides being heavily involved in my coursework, I try to be heavily involved outside the classroom. I got involved with the Latino Student Organization (LaSO) on campus my freshman year, and now, I am the vice president of the organization. We’re always working on finding ways to have more Latinx students involved on campus and promoting cultural awareness at IUP while working with other student organizations. Other organizations I have been getting involved with include the Student Accounting Association (SAA), which has provided many opportunities for business majors like me, the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), whose goal is similar to that of the SAA while helping underrepresented groups on campus. I also participated in ROTC these past two years, which has taught me much discipline, taught me the importance of teamwork, and provided me with some unforgettable friends and memories.

At IUP, the possibilities are endless. However, you decide your path and what your future will be. You must always seek opportunities and put in the work, rather than do the bare minimum to get by. Learn outside of the classroom; self-education can get you places you never thought of. Get to know your professors, as they all can provide you with wisdom and opportunities. An accounting professor of mine presented me with an opportunity to intern at a firm I dreamt of working for, so I seized the opportunity, and I am forever grateful. I am grateful for the opportunities, memories, and friendships IUP has provided me with. I strive to become a better person each day, and I hope to be able to help others along the way.