Family members and friends often ask how I find the time to fulfill my personal and professional responsibilities, and volunteer for Columbia. The answer is simple: I make time because I feel a strong sense of duty and commitment to alma mater.

I am a first-generation American born to Colombian immigrants. My mother was a seamstress in a clothing factory and my father was a New York City taxi driver. As a young girl, my parents instilled in me the importance of education. They'd say, "It will open many doors for you, and with it you'll beat poverty."

When I was admitted to Columbia, it was a wonderful dream. That dream became a reality thanks to the generous financial aid awards and scholarships that I received throughout my undergraduate years. The generosity of others allowed me to obtain a premier college education that prepared me well for graduate school and for my professional endeavors.

I aspire to give others the opportunity to attend Columbia. I hope to accomplish this by supporting the College financially and by serving as an Alumni Representative Committee, and as the Scholarship Chair of the Latino Alumni Association of Columbia University.