This is the final week of my academic career at @ONeill_Indy. I want to take a moment to reflect on how this program has provided me the tools and opportunities in my development.
This is an “unessay” 🧵 for #600SP21
CC: @jamielevdan
This is an “unessay” 🧵 for #600SP21
CC: @jamielevdan
As a first-gen student, I never imagined having the opportunity to go to college on the mainland, let alone the opportunity to pursue graduate-level education. After several opportunities during my BSPA degree, it became clear that an MPA was the next step in my development.
The MPA program gave me access to opportunities like the Peterson Fellowship, which allowed me to begin my professional career in local government with the City of Indianapolis while connecting me with colleagues and faculty that are passionate about making a positive difference.
Courses like #SPEAV598 w/ Dr. @CullenMerritt and #SPEAV663 w/ Dr. @CaliCurley provided me the framework to successfully formulate policies while also keeping in mind that collaborating is crucial to work with and listen to multiple stakeholder groups.
The skill and knowledge from the program and coursework have allowed me to continue to advocate for equity and access in our community (especially when it comes to #LanguageAccess and making information and program resources available).
Speaking of equity & access, given the amount of discourse in our current political climate – it's crucial to foster diversity, inclusion, and acceptance as public servants. Having courses like #SPEAV652 as part of the CORE curriculum will be useful for the future generation.
Many folks have asked me if it was hard to complete this degree while also working full time, and the answer to that is “Seguro que sí.” Still, it has the advantage of incorporating the learnings from each area and further develop my knowledge and experiences.
While I admit that it was difficult for the overachiever to complete this program in five years (rather than in two), I am grateful that I took the advice of professors and colleagues who reminded me that this degree is a marathon, not a sprint.
Taking it slow and steady has allowed me to be present and enjoy my work and the fulfillment that comes from serving our community, rather than rushing and being focused on the next move.
As I close this chapter, I’m looking to continue working to better my community back in Puerto Rico. With the goal of one day returning and have the right resources to work against decades of the same system
The people of Puerto Rico deserve public servants who advocate and work for them and their needs, not for the lobbyists and interest groups. A government that understands and recognizes “La Brega” of our people.
Until the opportunity is presented, I will continue to learn and grow from the experiences and resources that Indianapolis has to offer while working towards making this city a better place day by day.
Finally, I want to express my gratitude to my family, friends, coworkers, and @ONeill_Indy faculty and staff. Their support and guidance during the last several years have been the fuel that keeps me propelling forward - ¡Gracias!
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