Jennifer Herrera (BA, '25, Latina/Latino studies and political science)
About Jennifer
I am a first-generation student from the northwest suburbs of Chicago. I am the oldest daughter of four and have grown up with hard-working immigrant parents who believed that the more knowledge you gain, the more powerful you become. I love going to concerts, getting coffee, and learning new recipes.
Why LLS?
Going to a predominantly white high school, the LLS department was the first time I felt seen and connected to what I was studying. I started with Mexican American history with Professor Ramirez as an elective, which quickly made me feel connected to what we were talking about. The more classes I took the more I fell in love with the material and understanding our Latino community in a greater way. Choosing LLS has made me more of an advocate for the rights that we rightfully deserve and it has made me more passionate about the research we are looking into. Learning about the hardship and the accomplishments regarding education, politics, and history within Latina/o Studies has made me understand the world a little bit better.
Plans after graduating?
I will be interning for a company called Global Repair Group where I will help coordinate claims regarding airline passengers' wheelchairs, power chairs, and any other assistive devices. I will also start studying for the LSATs for the upcoming year!
Advice for undergraduate students
One piece of advice that I would like to give to undergraduate students is GET INVOLVED! For many of us, we are the first ones in our families to seek higher education and getting involved whether it's RSOs, Study Groups, Clubs, dorm hall etc will help you connect with people who may experience similar feelings as you. If you don't know where to start, go to a cultural center, ask your roommate, ask your peers!
Favorite memory?
One of my favorite memories at my time here was hosting a rally at the quad to support DACA/undocumented immigrants here on campus in the organization that I am in called I-CAUSE. Seeing how many people stood in solidarity was a beautiful image that I will never forget.
Favorite study spot on campus?
This might be controversial but I love studying at the Grainger specifically on the 2nd floor. I have a hard time focusing if there is a lot of noise going around!