HSI Essay Competition Winner: Leslie M. Rivera

This October, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (DEI) of the School of Government and Public Policy was proud to invite undergraduate students to participate in an essay competition sponsored by The Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). This essay was created as a scholarship opportunity to support UA student's education and ease financial burdens. The students were asked to express their opinions on what the University could do to better serve the Hispanic Community.  Leslie Rivera is the latest winner of the HSI Essay Competition 2023. 

Leslie is a current Junior majoring in Medicine with an emphasis on Basic Medical Sciences and a Minor in Spanish. Her interest in submitting this essay stemmed from navigating the challenging process of being an "undocumented" college student while constantly seeking resources to further her education. Rivera aspires to work as a future healthcare professional and hopes that voicing her opinion through this essay will make a positive impact for surrounding communities and students in similar situations; additionally, bringing important issues to our attention regarding immigrant culture and advocating for equal opportunities in educational centers. "I hope to see a positive light reflected onto the immigrant community especially in the institution of University of Arizona," said Leslie Rivera. 

Download Leslie's Full Essay here.