Social Justice Personal Statement

I grew up in a typical Mexican household in southwest Detroit, and it was not until recently when I became aware of what this meant. Being a Latino student in this country means I am not expected to make it far; it means the higher success I reach in academia, the lonelier I will become. “A Mexican boy, from a dirt-poor village, from Detroit, go to college? HA. Good luck with that.” These discriminatory ideas that society tries to implant in me only strengthen and encourage me to strive for greater success. I am proud to say that breaking stereotypes has become a hobby for me. I am at the top of my class, an active member of my community, have leadership positions in several organizations, I perform professionally in a cultural band, and I even compete in soccer year-round. While people of my background are consistently trapped at the bottom of the social hierarchy, I am proud of who I am and I would not change it for the world. My low socioeconomic status and the racial marginalization I suffer in this country has made me the vibrant young man I am today and formulated my long-term goal to rid my family from the shackles of
Working in my community and witnessing inequities with figures such as Maria Salinas and Consuela Lopez has motivated me to remember where I came from after my goals are accomplished. It is too often that those who are released from the shackles of poverty grow up and move into suburban areas, forgetting their community on the way. These role models are exceptions to this, and they have spread their wisdom and experience in the youth in their community. I want to use chemistry for the benefit of less fortunate people. I want to make an impact in my community. I want to help future generations make their aspirations accessible. I live by the saying “reach one, teach one” and fortunately, I grew up around people who live by it