Latinx Heritage Month Student Spotlight: Q&A With Andrea Diaz-Garcia ’22

To celebrate our diverse Latinx community, we’re highlighting student leaders and asking what this month means to them. Meet Andrea Diaz-Garcia, the co-president of Ballet Folklorico Guadalupano, a student club that performs Mexico’s regional dances. 

How do you identify, culturally and/or ethnically?

I identify as a Mexican American. I am the daughter of Mexican immigrants from Jalisco.

What is your year, major, and minor? 

I am a senior majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and a minor in Music.

How are you involved in our campus community?

I am one of the co-presidents of Ballet Folklórico Guadalupano, a resident advisor for Marjorie David Ageno 2nd floor, and a supervisor for the student advancement ambassadors. Throughout my time at Saint Mary's, I have been involved with Latinx Cultural Night for two years as event planner. I also have danced in BFG my entire time at Saint Mary's. 

What are some difficulties you've faced because of your culture or identity? What are some of the triumphs?

Difficulties I've experienced because of my ethnicity are being underestimated. I walked into grade school not knowing any English. Then coming into Saint Mary's, I found myself being the only brown girl in classes. Now I am here as a first-generation college student about to graduate with a major in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and a minor in Music. I am a resident advisor, a supervisor, and co-president of Ballet Folklorico Guadalupano. I realized I have come so far, and I am proud. 

Why is it important for our community and the larger community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

It is important because it's a time to celebrate and learn about our colorful culture. Within Hispanics and Latinx, there is so much diversity and different traditions and cultures. This is a time to be proud of who we are and where we come from. 

What advice do you have for community members who want to be actionable and help the Latinx/Hispanic community?

Advice for those who want to be actionable to help the Latinx/Hispanic Community is to support small businesses. Many Latinx/Hispanic people run small businesses to support their family. Our culture is very family-oriented, and the reason why we work is to support our family and education. Without the support of others, my parents would not have been able to afford sending me college. 

You can also be present and attend the Latinx events on campus! We will be having wonderful events throughout Hispanic Heritage Month as well as Our Lady Guadalupe, Latinx Cultural Night, and student-run events!