Biosketch
Name?
Karina Diaz
College?
College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Major?
English Literature
Hometown?
Waltham, MA
Favorite hobbies?
Gym, Playing piano, Spending time with family and friends
What is your favorite thing about UML?
The sense of community and amount of resources available to support students.
What are your future goals?
I aspire to have a successful career in the editing and publishing field helping to amplify frequently silenced voices through the art of literature.
What has being involved with the RHSA meant to you?
Being involved in the RHSA means I have a community to lean on when I need support, and in turn, being that support when others need me. We are all invested in each other’s success and acknowledge our achievements because we are aware of the socioeconomic disadvantages and additional barriers in our way as first-gen students. These components in our higher education and professional career paths make those moments that much more special.
Looking back, what advice would you give to yourself in your first year of college?
Learn to prioritize what needs to be prioritized. Find a balance between experiencing the new opportunities college brings, while still focusing on your education. Take advantage of the resources offered to you, and don’t hesitate to ask about them.
What advice would you give fellow students?
I’d say it’s necessary to familiarize and take advantage of the resources extended to you as a RHSA UML student. Even if you don’t necessarily need a resource in the moment, you may in the future so it’s best to get acquainted now because it makes your experience a little smoother. The RHSA offers a resource in almost any area you can think of, get involved. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, there are so many people invested in your success at UML and will go out of their way to help you reach your potential and higher.
Why did you choose to attend UMass Lowell?
It was a bit of a rushed and random decision, and I honestly wasn’t secure in my commitment until I got more involved with the RHSA. I didn’t get to tour campus due to COVID. However, once I committed and went through orientation I knew UML was the place for me because of the sense of community and teamwork.
What does it mean to you to be a first-generation college student?
Being a first-generation college student means breaking a barrier no one in my family has. Now, I am able to guide other first-gen students through the college process and I am enthralled to do so.
What inspires you to want to help first-generation students in the RHSA?
I am most inspired to help first-generation students because it is brave to be one. College is scary for everyone, but more so for those who are unfamiliar with higher education and have no one to help them navigate their confusion. I know the struggles we face are discouraging at times, and peer support is a huge contribution in earning our degrees. I relish working with and learning from others because I believe we all have something to contribute. Our voices are important and we aren't always heard, so I want to help amplify our message and impact on the world. Overall, I want to prevent first-generation students from dropping out because I know we are disproportionately less likely to finish our degrees. I want to take action and help change the narrative.