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Volume XVIINumber 4Summer 2010An Independent, Community-Based Magazine About Latin@s at Ohio Statewww.quepasa.osu.edu

Memories of GraduationsMaking Them Our OwnBy Michael J. AlaridEsquina del EditorI had almost forgotten. Let it sufficeto say that I was tired, overworked, andrunning low on energy on the day Brunoand I met with this year’s graduates for theannual ¿Qué Pasa, OSU? graduation photosession. Then I walked into the Ohio Unionand saw the smiles on the faces of all thesoon to be graduates. I could suddenly feelit: their energy, excitement, anticipation,and feelings of accomplishment engulfedme. For a moment, I remembered my firstgraduation: I was back in Oregon surroundedby my family, filled with pride andexcited about being the first person in myfamily to graduate from college. It was oneof the best days of my life.It may sound trite, but really yourcollege graduation is a surreal time: amoment when dreams come true formany who, at some point, doubted theymight ever make it this far. It’s a timewhen worlds collide in ways you’ve neverimagined, with your college friends, colleagues,and family members, once occupyingdifferent spheres, suddenly shakinghands as siblings, parents, and grandparentsenter the university world you havecalled home for so many years. Professorstell how proud they are to your mother,friends lament how much they will missyou to a brother, and somewhere in themiddle you catch only snippets of thisonce in a lifetime symphony.For our graduating students at OSUwho have just lived this experience, thememories they have made will stay withthem for the rest of their lives. To thesestudents and to their families, we dedicatepart of this edition. Our cover features thephoto that came from that photo session,and depicts 20 graduates who wereselected to be featured in this edition.Each student has a different story and weare pleased that all of them have beenprofiled for this edition in our graduateprofile section entitled Their Best Day. Theiraccomplishments, passion, determination,and love for OSU make them most worthyof the degrees they now hold. To all graduates,we hope that you will read StayingConnected, Vincent Sanchez’s article aboutthe developing Hispanic Alumni Society atOSU. Congratulations to all of you!But for every graduate, there are manystudents still on their way to this greataccomplishment; it is for those that therest of this edition is intended. Our editionbegins with Greetings from Key Leaders,featuring salutations and well wishes fromuniversity leaders who play importantroles in bringing new students to OSU. Forour faculty profile, we focus on the careerof Mónica Giusti in the article EnhancingHealth, Fighting Disease with FunctionalFoods; our student profile features MiguelGuevara in Undergraduate Focuses onStrengthening the Latino Community.To make it to graduation day you willneed guidance, especially if you’re a firstgeneration college student. Among themost important subjects you will engageare choosing the right university, learningabout financial aid, understanding theresources that are available to you at OSU,and figuring out how to maximize yourexperience as a Buckeye. To help surmountthese obstacles, we offer numerous articleswritten to act as a road map for those transitioningto OSU. To help choose the rightuniversity, Jefferson Blackburn Smith offerssome advice in Is The Ohio State UniversityRight for You? Additionally, Dr. ErnestoEscoto takes us on a creative journey toexamine the process of leaving home inhis article Mafalda, 1492 + Buckeye Nation.As many of you are already starting tosuspect, understanding financial aid andfinding scholarships are going to be pivotalfor your success. In It is Never Too Late fora Scholarship Maria Sanchez offers tipsfor the application process, while MarilynLee explains the importance of filing yourFAFSA in The FAFSA Can Save You. To helpunderstand the resources available to you,Indra Leyva-Santiago writes about theresources at the Multicultural Center inThe Multicultural Center Is Your Safe Haven,and Susannah Turner encourages you toexplore support groups within the dormsin her article Learning Communities AreSeeking You. Finally, to help make the mostof your time at OSU, Ana Gerber encouragesyou to study abroad in her articleThe Road Is Calling, while Cyndi Freemanoffers some insight to incoming graduatestudents in Making Columbus Your Home.In the midst of all this excitement,we would be remiss to ignore the challengesthat the Latino community inArizona is currently facing. We turn thento Yolanda Zepeda’s article Enforcement-Only Immigration Strategies Don’t Work inour Su Opinión section, where she offersher perspective into the current tumult.For those who wish to know more aboutthe controversy in Arizona, we hope thisarticle provides the insight many seem tobe seeking.For our graduates, this is a milestone;for those reading this edition who arejust beginning the process, we hope ithelps illuminate your path to success.With you in mind, we are proud to offerthis publication and its content. Wehope that you can take advantage of theguidance that so many have contributedfor this edition. To all our readers we wishnothing but the best.M.J. Alarid2

EditorMichael J. AlaridDesignerBruno Ribeiro4581011267Volume XVII Number 4 Summer 2010FeaturesGreedings from Key LeadersIs The Ohio State UniversityRight for You?A Guide to Decision Making and Why OSUIs the Place for YouBy Jefferson Blackburn SmithIt Is Never Too Late for a ScholarshipTaking the Right Steps for Relief from theFinancial Burden of CollegeBy Maria SanchezThe FAFSA Can Save YouWhy FAFSA Matters as Much as YourCollege ApplicationsBy Merilyn LeeThe Multicultural Center Is YourSafe HavenThe Services and Benefits of the MCC to aWeary StudentBy Indra Leyva-SantiagoSectionsEsquina del EditorMemories of GraduationsMaking Them Our OwnBy Michael J. AlaridFaculty ProfileMónica GiustiEnhancing Health, Fighting Disease withFunctional FoodsBy Mauricio EspinozaStudent ProfileMiguel GuevaraUndergraduate Focuses on Strengtheningthe Latino CommunityBy Michael J. Alarid121314152216182028Making Columbus Your HomeA Guide for New Graduate Students forthe Next Two-Six YearsBy Cyndi FreemanThe Road Is CallingHow Study Abroad Can Complete YourCollege ExperienceBy Anna GerberLearning Communities Are Seeking YouAn Examination of the Benefits and Allureof Learning Communities at OSUBy Susannah TurnerStaying ConnectedA Call to Action for Hispanic AlumniBy Vincent SanchezTheir Best DayThe Trials and Triumphs of 20 OSUGraduates2009 – 2010 EventsThe Year in PicturesHighlights from the Latino CommunityDuring the 2009-2010 School YearCreative CornerMafalda, 1492 + Buckeye NationReflections on Leaving HomeBy Ernesto R. Escoto, Ph.D.Su OpiniónEnforcement-only ImmigrationStrategies Don’t WorkAn Examination of the Misguided ArizonaSB1070 BillBy Yolanda ZepedaSpring 2010 GraduatesAssistant EditorGiovana CovarrubiasEditorial BoardMauricio EspinozaMonica Frías-BosonVíctor J. MoraContributorsJoseph A. AluttoErnesto R. EscotoMauricio EspinozaDolan EvanovichCyndi FreemanAnna GerberMarilyn LeeValerie B. LeeIndra Leyva-SantiagoMaria SanchezJefferson Blackburn SmithSusannah TurnerYolanda ZepedaPlease send all letters, press releases,and other materials to:¿Qué Pasa, OSU?063 Mount Hall1050 Carmack RoadColumbus OH 43210(614) 688 3569This publication is supported byThe Office of Academic Affairs andthe Office of Minority Affairs. Thispublication is funded through theHispanic Oversight Committee.The Ohio State University is notresponsible for the content of thispublication. This publication doesnot necessarily reflect the views andopinions of the staff or the editorialboard. All submissions for publicationmust include name and phonenumber or e-mail of the person(s)responsible for the work. ¿Qué Pasa,OSU? reserves the right to refuse anyand all submissions for publicationat any time.Note: We use “@” instead of “o/a”because we want all Latin@s, menand women, to feel included.Cover: Photo by Bruno Ribeirowww.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 3

Is The Ohio State University Right for You?A Guide to Decision Making and Why OSU Is the Place for YouBy Jefferson Blackburn Smith, Sr. Associate Director, Undergraduate Admissions and First Year ExperienceAs you approach your senior year ofhigh school, and the daunting task ofchoosing where to apply and eventuallyenroll, how do you know which school isthe right school for you? It can seem likeoverwhelming, with over 3,400 collegesand universities in the United States. Hereare several things to think about as youconsider Ohio State and other schools.What do you want to study?Students tell us that the number onereason they choose to apply to a collegeor university is the strength of the majorthey are interested in studying. Certainly,students shouldn’t apply to schools thatdon’t offer the program they want tostudy, but several other factors shouldbe taken into account as well. Many,many college students end up changingtheir major one or more times beforethey graduate. A school like Ohio Statecan help guarantee that your academicexploration won’t outgrow your university.For example, Ohio State has over 160undergraduate majors and more than450 specializations among those majors.Students can even create their own major,by bringing together elements of otherprograms into a unique field of study.What do you want to do after college?Students frequently spend timefocusing on their major without thinkingabout their entire degree. At any university,your major courses account for onlyabout one third of the classes you willtake for graduation. One third will begeneral education classes that build skillsets and create a common learning baseand the last third will be elective classes.How will the colleges you are lookingat prepare you to be competitive to dowhat you want to do, once you graduate?Ohio State has so many academic opportunitiesthat students can craft theirdegree around that desired outcome. Soa student can study business just aboutanywhere, but if you want to work inChina, can you take Chinese history asa general education requirement andChinese language as an elective? Can youdo a study abroad program in China? Youcan at Ohio State. That means when youare interviewing for those positions towork in China, you will look more competitivethat students who didn’t havethose opportunities.How can your experiences outsidethe classroom reinforce what you arelearning in the classroom?You will have many learning opportunitiesoutside the classroom as wellas those you have inside the classroom.Do the schools you are considering offerthe same kinds of out-of-classroomopportunities? Ohio State has more than900 student organizations that providestudents with leadership opportunitiesand a way to engage in the campus community.Our students are engaging inresearch, whether working on a facultymember’s research team or directingtheir own research project, and learningwhat it means not just to learn, but tocreate knowledge. With over 100 studyabroad programs in more than 40 countries,ranging in length from ten days toan entire year, Ohio State students learnhow to thrive in a global economy andengage different cultures. Thousands ofOhio state undergraduates get real workexperience while in school by participatingin internships and co-ops. All of theseexperiences help prepare students for lifeafter college.How do you feel on the campus?If you take your time as you researchcolleges, you will be able to identifyseveral universities that might be a goodfit. Once you have that list down, it’simportant to begin to visit these schoolsto see how you feel about the idea ofspending the next four years there. It maynot be feasible to visit all the schools youare interested in before you apply, butyou definitely don’t want to enroll at acollege you haven’t seen in person. Youwouldn’t buy a car without test-drivingit first, right? The campus visit is like acollege test-drive. When you visit, be sureto do the official information session andtour, so you can hear how the collegedefines itself, but don’t stop there. Getout on campus and meet some currentstudents, other than your tour guides,and ask them how they like the campus.See if their answers are similar to the tourguides who are supposed to promotethe university. Think about how easy thecampus is to get around, how diverse thestudent body is, what students do whenthey are not in class. Does everyone gohome on the weekends? (You don’t wantto be stuck on a campus thousands ofmiles from home when most kids gohome for the weekend.) Are the studentsyou meet people you want to spend thenext four years getting to know better?One of the things we here fromstudents who visit Ohio State is that theyknew as soon as they saw the campusthat this was where they wanted to goto school. The visit confirmed everythingelse they already knew, and made theirfinal decision an easy one.Whatever you do, pay attention todeadlines! Nothing can derail a collegedream faster than missing an importantdeadline. All of the colleges you arelooking at will have their own deadlines,so make a chart where you can track themto be sure you don’t miss anything import.You have 3 or 4 deadlines to think aboutfor each school: the application deadline(many schools have an early deadlineand a final deadline), scholarship deadlines,financial aid deadlines and deadlinesfor applying to special programs likeHonors or Scholars. Ohio State encouragesstudents to apply by Dec. 1 to beconsidered for the broadest range ofmerit scholarships, with a final deadlineof Feb. 1. Students interested in Scholarsprograms are also encouraged to apply byDecember 1. The priority deadline to filethe Free Application for Federal StudentAid (FAFSA) is February 15. Ohio State(and many schools) requires students tolet us know by May 1 if they are planningon attending the following fall.With these thoughts in mind as youdecide where to apply and enroll, BuenaSuerte! Good Luck!www.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 5

Miguel GuevaraUndergraduate Focuses on Strengthening the Latino CommunityBy Michael J. Alarid , Editor, ¿Qué Pasa, OSU?Miguel Guevara was packing for collegewhen the warnings sirens came: HurricaneIke was bearing down on south Texasand threatening his home. “In preparationfor Ike and its landfall, I spent mylast five days in Houston sleeping on thefloor of someone else’s home,” Miguel told¿Qué Pasa, OSU? Just three days prior todeparture, Hurricane Ike barreled throughsoutheast Texas, causing more than $29billion in damages to the American coastline.Miguel and his family were not ableto return home until the day before hisdeparture. Miguel immediately completedhis packing, and then spent the rest of hislast moments at home trying to help clearas much debris as possible from the areaaround his home. “I had an early morningflight to Columbus and my parents camewith me, helped me unpack, we ate lunch,and then they had to return to Houston thesame day.” Miguel Guevara found himself along way from Houston, both geographicallyand culturally, and in many ways felttorn from home by the tragedy he hadexperienced. But Miguel centered himselfand found his focus, walling out all of thedistractions. Indeed, he has spent everyday since trying to make OSU his home.For Miguel, Ohio State had long beena part of his dreams. In fact, Ohio wasnot entirely a foreign place for him: hismother is from Lorain and for much ofhis life Miguel visited his grandparentsfor summer vacations. During these visitsOhio State became part of his life and,when it was time to apply for college,OSU was on his radar. “Ohio State was myfirst choice,” Miguel told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU?“My family was excited when I receivedmy acceptance letter since they knewthat. All I needed was the scholarship tomake attending Ohio State a reality.” Thatscholarship came in the form of the MorrillScholars Program Scholarship, a full tuitionaward that offers funding for the durationof one’s undergraduate career. “My parentswere excited and proud of me, but I couldtell they were also sorry I would be so faraway from home.”Although he spent his summers inOhio, the culture shock that came fromleaving Houston for Columbus presentednumerous unique challenges. “In HoustonLatino culture is everywhere and to bedeprived of some cultural aspects of mylife was really shocking; I did not knowthat good Tex-Mex or Mexican food wouldbe so difficult to find!” Miguel told ¿QuéPasa, OSU? “Also, the winter months arejust brutal for me, the lack of sun, the greyskies, etc. have affected me in a mannerthat I did not foresee.” Miguel believesthat most of these cultural differences arepartially a byproduct of Columbus beingsmaller than Houston and partially dueto that fact that the Hispanic communityin Columbus is still in its early stages ofdevelopment.Still, the fact that the Hispanic communitiesin Columbus are experiencingrapid growth is undeniable. “I have notexperienced the Columbus Latino. I do notventure off to the west end that often, butthat in itself is a striking difference becausein Houston you do not have to try to meetor see Latinos.” For those that Miguelhas met, he has nothing but the highestregard. “Ohio State has introduced me tovery dedicated and intelligent Latinos. InHouston I do not personally know Latinodoctors, lawyers, Ph.D.s, etc. But at OhioState I run into various Latinos who fitthat description or are striving to attainthat description all the time. In this sense,I have experienced a Latino communitythat I have not had much contact withback in Houston.”For Miguel, his focus has now shiftedaway from what he misses about Houston;these days he’s more concerned aboutwhat he can do to make the Latino communityat OSU stronger. “I have gotteninvolved and am engaged as much aspossible; I’ve dedicated myself to makingsure that the Latino student, faculty, andstaff voices are being heard.” In pursuitof those ends, Miguel is a foundingmember of the Lambda Theta Phi LatinFraternity, Inc. at Ohio State, the Presidentof the University-wide Council of HispanicOrganizations (UCHO), the AssociateDirector for Hispanic Outreach forUndergraduate Student Government, anda Diversity Ambassador for UndergraduateAdmissions and First Year Experience(UAFYE), where he speaks with highschool minority students about comingto college. Clearly, his extensive involvementin student organizations is ultimatelyaimed toward one goal: making the Latinocommunity at Ohio State stronger.In terms of his future, that path hasstill yet to be determined. “I am definitelygoing to do some graduate work,” he told¿Qué Pasa, OSU? “I came to Ohio Statedetermined to go to law school after graduation.Ohio State has very good diversityrecruiters however, and I am also seriouslyconsidering pursuing a Ph.D.” With a laugh,he concluded, “So as of right now, I amtrying to decide what path I should take!”Whatever route he takes, Miguel will nodoubt remain dedicated to making theLatino community a better place.PHOTO BY MICHAEL J. ALARIDStudent Profilewww.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 7

It Is Never Too Late for a ScholarshipTaking the Right Steps for Relief from the Financial Burden of CollegeBy Maria Sanchez , Coordinator, Academic Studies, Office of Minority AffairsThere are 600,000 scholarships worthmore than one billion dollars and these areavailable to both perspective and currentcollege students; sadly, a good portionwill simply go unused. Meanwhile, thoseunaware of scholarship opportunitiescontinue to be overwhelmed by the costof attendance. In fact, the stress that hasbeen produced in their first years at OSUhas created extra pressure in an alreadychallenging academic environment formany students, often leading to theirfailure. But whether you are starting yourcollege journey or are halfway throughthere is one thing you need to know: it isnever too late to look into scholarship andfinancial aid opportunities.First, if you are just applying for collegeor are in the middle of the decision makingprocess, you’ll need to tune out the cost ofattendance for awhile… There are biggerquestions that need to be answered: whatis the strength of the institution; howstrong is your major within that university;what sorts of opportunities (study aboard,research, co-ops/internships, etc.) areavailable to you if you select this college?This is not to say that you should tuneout scholarship opportunities, becausefinding scholarships is an ongoing processthat never ceases! But when it is time toactually select a school it is a mistake toconsider cost first. Only after you haveranked your colleges, should you thenconsider what seems like the biggestfactor to most: how will you pay? The factis the cost of attending a university canbe deceiving, because scholarships andfinancial aid can bring down your actualcost of going to college; at the same timescholarships can position you for successand bolster your resume.Now in regards to scholarships thereis one thing you need to known above allothers: NO ONE IS GOING TO DO THIS FORYOU. This is work. Money doesn’t just fallfrom the sky, so you need to be proactive,ask questions, and develop a strategy thatworks for you if you want to earn a scholarship.First, cast your net as wide as possiblein terms of looking and asking for fundingopportunities. Establish personal connections,so that someone can help guide youthrough the admissions and scholarshipprocesses. Ask Ohio State representativesabout financial aid opportunities and doa search for scholarships on Ohio State’swebsite; visit the financial aid website(more than once!). Contact the programor major that you are interested in and askif they offer any scholarships. Many highschool students may be sidetracked withfootball games, homecoming, etc., whileothers may only be thinking about gettingaccepted into college and not necessarilyhow to pay for college. You should beputting yourself on the radar for specificscholarship opportunities, not just forgeneral financial aid.The Morrill Scholars ProgramScholarships (MSP) at Ohio StateUniversity is one such opportunity. MSP isa great scholarship for incoming freshmanand the nation’s largest diversity scholarshipprogram; the value of an MSP startsat in-state tuition and is flexible enough toincrease and cover costs for out-of-statestudents as well. This scholarship is administratedby Office of Minority Affairs (OMA)and it is important for you to becomefamiliar with their selection criteria. MSPasks for a minimum 3.3 cumulative GPA(on a 4.0 scale), 23 ACT (or 1,070 SAT), andtop 20 percent of your graduating class.Students who are interested in attendingOhio State, are U.S. residents, and meettwo out of the three requirements shouldnot hesitate to apply for this scholarship.To apply, students should complete theMSP application, which is available online,along with their admissions application8

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MARIA SANCHEZbefore Dec. 1st. Visit www.oma.osu.edu/recruitment for more information.MSP is not the only merit basedaward out there, and students shouldmake themselves aware of other similarawards that are available to those whomeet the academic criteria. Rememberthat for merit scholarships, it is necessaryto take the ACT/SAT, and it is advisableto take it as early as possible becausethat allows you a chance to retake it ifnecessary. Also, students must apply tothe university before the December 1stadmissions priority deadline in order toaccess such scholarships. Remember thatthese merit based awards are not dependenton financial need. Scholarshipscan often be combined with otherscholarships and that many of them arerenewable. For more information onmerit-based scholarships, please visitwww.meritawards.osu.edu.There are also community basedprograms and other online resourcesthat should be explored. For example,locally there is an organization calledDamas Latinas (www.damaslatinas.org) and nationally there is the HispanicScholarship Fund (www.hsf.net), both ofwhich provide scholarships to students.The Hispanic Scholarship Fund is large andprovides plenty of scholarships for bothundergraduate and graduate studies. Visitthe Hispanic Scholarship Fund website forinformation on a variety of topics, suchas choosing a college to career guidance.There are numerous search engines tohelp navigate the numerous communityscholarships, including Fast web, a websitededicated to providing students withcollege financing options (www.fastweb.com). One bit of advice though: stay clearof websites or programs that charge a feeto help you find financial aid opportunities.Additionally, don’t forget about universitygrants, which can be need based andrequire you to fill out your Free Applicationfor Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Even ifyou are not selected for a grant, you stillmay have the opportunity to attain awork study position. Also, ask the majoror college you enroll in and find out ifthere are any scholarships offered by theirdepartments. Occasionally, colleges willaward students after they have demonstratedtheir abilities as a scholar withintheir area of study, but in order to be ina position to approach a department ormajor for funding a student must be ingreat academic standing. Finally once youare at the university, take advantage offree opportunities like the writing centerand OMA academic advancement servicesto keep your grades up. It is a certainty thatthe time invested in studying can reallypay off in terms of scholarships.In closing, here are a couple of tipsabout scholarship applications:1. Do your research and ask questions!By putting in time and effort, you can findout about funding opportunities. Searchthe web; ask either your guidance counseloror your major advisor and rememberthat it’s never too early to start looking.2. Every little bit counts… Don’t take forgranted a small scholarship, those smallscholarships add up before you know it.3. Meet all deadlines! You may miss avaluable opportunity if you miss deadlines.This is your responsibility, and noone is going to do it for you…www.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 9

The FAFSA Can Save YouWhy FAFSA Matters as Much as Your College ApplicationsBy Merilyn Lee , Assistant Director, Office of Student Financial Aidyou the best value. Is a $20,000 scholarshipbetter than a $2,000 scholarship?Surprisingly, the answer is, “Maybe.” Tofind out, you need to look at your out-ofpocketexpense at each institution.To understand what your financialaid awards mean, you have to understandcollege costs. What it actually coststo attend a specific institution for anacademic year varies greatly betweenschools. All schools have direct costs,which are billed to you each term, andindirect costs, which you pay as you go. Tofind your out-of-pocket direct cost at eachschool, subtract your gift assistance (scholarshipsand grants which do not need tobe repaid) from the school’s direct costs.The difference is your out-of pocket cost.PHOTO BY MICHAL UFNIAK, SXCCongratulations! You’ve been admittedto college, and now you are on your way tofulfilling your dreams.Not so fast! College is expensive, andmany families find it hard to come up withthe funding to pay for a college education,especially in this economy. Most studentsfind financial aid a necessity to pursuetheir educational goals. Recent data fromthe National Postsecondary Student AidStudy suggests that 66 percent of allcollege students obtain some kind offinancial aid to pay for college.The good news is that financial aid isavailable. The not-so-good news is thatfunds are limited and are awarded to thosestudents who maximize their chances ofreceiving the best aid package. If you wantto be one of those students, read on!First, do your best in school.Scholarships are awarded to students whoshow promise, whether in academics orin specialized areas like dance or artisticperformance. The better your gradesand overall performance, the more likelyyou are to be considered for merit-basedscholarship awards.Second, find out what you need to doto apply for all kinds of aid. All collegesrequire the Free Application for FederalStudent Aid (FAFSA) for federal aid. Somecolleges also require separate institutionalapplications or the CSS PROFILE forconsideration for non-federal aid funds.It’s important to find out which applicationseach institution you are consideringrequires and whether there is a prioritydate for filing. Most colleges’ websites willclearly explain their application processand priority filing dates, but if you haveany doubt, contact the aid office directlyto clarify.Third, apply as early as possible, andalways before the priority application date.When funds are limited, early applicantshave a better chance of being awarded.Fourth, make sure your FAFSA andother applications are completely andaccurately filled out. If information ismissing, or if the school has to requestadditional clarification from you and yourparents, you may miss out on funds.Applying for aid is an important firststep, but it’s equally important to be ableto compare aid awards from differentschools to figure out which one offersConsider these examples of costs:College A College BTuition & fees $ 9,400 $ 36,300Room & board $ 10,065 $ 8,960Total direct costs $ 19,465 $ 45,260Now let’s look again at those scholarshipoffers:College A College BTotal direct costs $ 19,465 $ 45,260Scholarship & grant offer $ 2,000 $ 20,000Total out-of-pocket costs $ 17,465 $ 25,260The difference in out-of-pocket cost atthese two colleges is almost $8,000. This ishow much more you and your family willpay if you attend College B. You may pay thisfrom savings, by working while in school, byborrowing student loans, or by some combinationof these strategies. In any event,College A will cost you and your family lessof your own funds than College B.Is cost the whole story? Not really.There are some intangibles, too. Yourfamily has to decide what is most realisticin your situation. Which college willtake your further toward your goals?What is a realistic educational debt levelfor you given your projected major?Where will you feel more comfortable?All these factors should be taken intoaccount as you decide where you wantto attend and how much to invest inyour college education.10

The Multicultural Center Is Your Safe HavenThe Services and Benefits of the MCC to a Weary StudentBy Indra Leyva-Santiago , Intercultural Specialist, Hispanic/Latin@ Student InitiativesThe Multicultural Center’s prime locationon the first floor of the new Ohio Unionmakes it a central gathering space for OhioState students to join in education, celebration,support and dialogue among allcultures and identities.The Multicultural Center offers interculturalprogramming that welcomescommunity members of all cultures andidentities. At the same time it supports andcelebrates specific cultural and identitygroups, including race, ethnicity, nationality,gender identity, sexual identity,disability, socioeconomic, faith andemerging communities. The MulticulturalCenter’s array of community eventseach year includes community festivals,heritage months, awareness weeks, intergroupdialogues, three-credit courses,workshops, trainings, film series, supportgroups, lectures and a whole range ofstudent leadership groups. Do not missthe series of events that the MulticulturalCenter has to offer you during welcomeweek followed by the nationally observedcelebrations of Hispanic Heritage Monthand the traditional Fiesta in the fall onOct. 28, 2010.At the Multicultural Center, studentsplay an intrinsic part of the event planning.Students are always encouraged to exploremore about their own and other identitiesto best prepare them to be effectiveglobal citizens, especially in an increasinglysocially just world, where studentstoday must be aware of the multiplicityof identities and their intersections andinterconnections. At the MulticulturalCenter students are given the opportunityto explore new and innovative waysof creating stronger, wiser communitieswhere people can bring their differencestogether as strengths toward a commongoal of social justice.The Multicultural Center welcomes allstudents to use the resources availableat the center to study, spend time withfriends, create new friendships, learn aboutupcoming intercultural events, watch TV atthe lounge, or chat about whatever’s upwith the students and staff in the center.The center also houses a level 2 lactationroom that also serves as a serenity spacewhere students can find the time to reflectand relax during stressful times. TheMulticultural Center staff is always availablefor students to help, listen, supportand to provide that home away from homefeeling that is needed to succeed in youruniversity journey.Visit our website to find out more abouthow to connect with the MulticulturalCenter Staff, how to be involved on themultiple student planning teams, if you areinterested in becoming part of a studentgroup or just if you want to check out whatis cooking for the upcoming months! Orcome visit us between 8am–9pm, Mondaythrough Thursday, 8am–5pm on Fridays.We can’t wait to meet you!Multicultural CenterOffice of Student LifeOhio Union, Suite 10001739 North High StreetColumbus Ohio 43210614.688.8449http://mcc.osu.edumccinfo@studentlife.osu.eduPHOTO BY BRUNO RIBEIROwww.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 11

Making Columbus Your HomeA Guide for New Graduate Students for the Next Two-Six YearsBy Cyndi Freeman , Director, Graduate Student Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives, The Graduate SchoolPHOTO BY BRUNO RIBEIROYour life has been a series of questionsand answers that have brought you to thispoint: you are about to become a graduateor professional student at The Ohio StateUniversity. For the next two, four, six oreight years, Columbus is where you willbe living and learning. Being able to makethis your “home” will be important to yoursuccess as a student.You will need to understand the demographicsof Columbus and Ohio State. Thisis much more than race and ethnicity. OhioState is the largest university in the UnitedStates; 39,209 undergraduate studentsand 10,097 graduate students, in the 16thlargest city. Ohio’s Latin@/Hispanic populationcomprises 2.3 percent of the totalstate population. According to the OhioDepartment of Development, most of theHispanic population growth has takenplace within the last 10 years. Since 2000the number of Latino/Hispanic individualsin Ohio increased by 22.4 percent. Threeout of every ten Latino/Hispanic lives inone of the three major cities Cleveland,Columbus, or Toledo. Overall, nearly 90percent of Ohio’s Latino/Hispanic residentslive in urban areas.With a growing, vital and diverseLatino population, Columbus is havingsome growing pains, but great opportunitiesas well. You need to make themost of this life experience. Socialactivities, cultural events, recreationand professional development are allpart of your experience in Columbus.And the city is full of surprises. WhenI arrived here threeyears ago, I was surprisedthat chorizo was available in themain meat case at Giant Eagle! There aremarkets specializing in Latino cuisineacross the city from Morse Road on theNorthside to the Westside. And thereare loads of dining options as well; fromthe taco trucks to Peruvian, Columbian,Venezuelan, Puerto Rico, Mexican andSpanish. While nothing is like yourgrandmother’s cooking, a taste of somethinglike home can really help.There are also annual events in thecity to help you connect with interestingpeople and have fun: from Red, White andBoom, to Comfest, to Festival Latino, andthe Dios Los Niños, Columbus has much tooffer. The Ohio Latino Commission, www.ochla.ohio.gov, provides a great deal ofinformation to the Latino community.Here are my recommendations for whatyou should seek to discover, which I hopewill help get you started here Columbus.Take a look at Columbus as a touristmight. Use Experience Columbus as a guide(www.experiencecolumbus.com) to findout about parks, museums, the zoo, annualevents and more..While your time is very precious, volunteeringmay offer just the connectionyou need to your new community.Whether your involvement in on-campusor in the community, not only will yoube providing service to others, but you'llalso be meeting other volunteers — likemindedbut diverse individuals who couldbe potential new friends.Subscribe to the Columbus Dispatch,one of the easiest ways to get the scoopon your new hometown is by reading thelocal paper. You will learn about the community,the local political scene and youhave to love the Sunday coupons!Might sound old fashioned, but get alibrary card. Libraries are more than books,you can check out DVDs, and find outabout local events.If you have children, register them forschool. The sooner your child can establisha regular routine, the easier it will be forthem to settle in.Don’t forget to get your driver’s licenseand license plates.Register to vote; make sure your voiceis heard here!Contact insurance companies, includinghousehold, auto and health. Find outif you need any changes.Make sure you connect with the Latinocommunity at The Ohio State University.¿Qué Pasa, OSU? supports a wonderfulweb link for Latino organizations, www.quepasa.osu.edu/organizations.Also, some final advice: don’t be afraidto ask questions and reach out. There arelots of people here, and they have not onlysurvived the experience you are beginning…but they have thrived!12

The Road Is CallingHow Study Abroad Can Complete Your College ExperienceBy Anna Gerber , Public Relations Coordinator, The Office of International AffairsHave you ever dreamed of studying centuries-oldarchitecture in Italy, of researchinganimal welfare in Australia, or justliving with a host family in Argentina?Every year, more than 60,000students step foot on Ohio State’scampuses to further their educationthrough academic, research, and professionalexperiences and many of themhave dreams about traveling they maybelieve impossible. In fact, the Officeof International Affairs at Ohio Statefacilitates international opportunitiesfor students and administers a varietyof study abroad programs. Ohio Stateoffers over 100 study abroad programsin 40 different countries, all of which aredesigned to celebrate diverse cultures,foster the exchange of ideas and supportthe growing international dimension ofOhio State. Study abroad is any internationalexperience gained in anothercountry, including classes, study-toursand internships. Close to 20 percent ofundergraduates have a study abroadexperience before they graduate.The global society in which we livehas made it increasingly important forstudents to have a broad understanding ofworld cultures, and an international experienceis becoming a crucial part of theireducation. Students need to have a globalperspective in order to be competitive intheir personal and professional lives, as theworld becomes an interdependent andinterconnected society.Evan Davis, a junior studying internationalstudies and political science, hasbeen on two study abroad experiences –one to Turkey, and one to Bolivia. “Studyabroad is an amazing experience that haschanged me as an individual by openingmy mind to new ideas, new cultures andnew viewpoints,” said Davis. “You learna lot about yourself and the world, nomatter what country you travel to.”In order to accommodate students’demanding schedules, the Office ofInternational Affairs offers a variety ofstudy abroad programs to help themcomplete some of their required courseworkabroad, during a time that works withtheir schedule. Programs are offered incountries around the world, with coursesoffered in almost any subject.There are two different kinds of OhioState sponsored study abroad programsfor students to choose from — shorttermand quarter-length. Quarter-lengthprograms vary from three to 10 weeks,and in most cases, consist of a group ofOhio State students studying togetherwith an Ohio State faculty or staff memberacting as a resident director. Short-termprograms offer students an experience,usually taught in English, that won’t interferewith their class time. An Ohio Statefaculty member teaches a pre-departureclass on campus, and then leads a programabroad for a period of time lasting from10 days to three weeks. Students usuallyreceive credit for their class on campus, aswell as their study time abroad.“The 10-day trip was the perfectamount of time to get a feel for the countryI was visiting, without having to miss anytime at Ohio State,” said sophomore developmentstudies major Ellen Noe of herspring break study in Bolivia.In addition to Ohio State sponsoredprograms, there are also co-sponsoredprograms, international exchangeprograms, and individualized studyprograms. Co-sponsored programs aremanaged by another U.S. or foreign institution,and allow students to becomeenrolled at another university in courseswith local and other foreign students.International exchange programs allowOhio State students to go abroad to anoverseas institution, while that schoolsends some of their students to OhioState to study. For students that cannotfind a program that quite fits their needs,they can design an individualized studyprogram, which will allow them to participatein an academic or work-relatedprogram, such as an internship, servicelearning,or research experience in anothercountry.There are many scholarship andfunding options available to study abroadstudents. Program costs vary widelydepending on the length, location, andtype of study abroad program, and scholarshipsare administered by the Office ofInternational Affairs. Students are eligibleto receive scholarships based on a numberof criteria, including demonstrated financialneed, hometown, major or course ofstudy, and even the region of the worldwhere they plan to study abroad.“The grant I received through Honorsand Scholars helped my family and I withsome of the program costs,” says sophomoreDevin Oliver. “My study abroad experienceopened my eyes to different careerpaths that I might consider, and reinforcedmy desire to learn a second language.I know that the experiences I had whileabroad will stick with me for life. It wastruly a life changing experience.”The most important thing to rememberwhen considering a study abroad programis to plan ahead. Attending an Office ofInternational Affairs “Getting Started”session is the first step to receive all thebasic information about study abroad.Students should speak to a study abroadcoordinator about their plans, as well astouch base with their academic advisor toassure that a study abroad program willfulfill their academic requirements. Takingthe proper steps and planning ahead canhelp alleviate some of the stress, and allowstudents to get the most of their internationalexperience. Play your cards right,and study abroad will be an experiencethat will prepare you to become a responsibleglobal citizen while creating memoriesthat you will cherish for a lifetime.PHOTO BY SIGURD DECROOS, SXCwww.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 13

Learning Communities Are Seeking YouAn Examination of the Benefits and Allure of Learning Communities at OSUBy Susannah Turner , Associate Director of Resident Life at the Office of Student LifeLiving in a residence hall community atOhio State is an incredible opportunityto live in community with other students,grow with peers who are having similarexperiences, and create long lastingmemories about your time as a Buckeye atOSU. Learning communities are an importantpart of the residence hall experience,designed for the purpose of connectingstudents to those with similar interests.A learning community is a group ofstudents with similar academic majors orinterests who live together on a floor or ina hall. These programs help you connectmore deeply with others who might betaking the same classes or are interestedin doing the same things on campus. Ourapproach has been successful: the datashow that students who live in learningcommunities are more likely to havehigher grade point averages, connect toprofessors outside the classroom aboutclass questions, think that forming studygroups is easier, get involved in communityservice, and be involved on campus.All of these things are great indicators foryour success as a Buckeye.As a member of a learning community,you could also have the opportunityto attend events that are tailored toyour major or your interests, includingfaculty dinners, short term study abroadopportunities, a course that you takewith your learning community peers,and in-hall advising. In the past, wehave had events where faculty membershave come in the night before classesbegin in Fall quarter to answer questionsabout what students can expectfrom faculty and the classroom experienceat OSU. Learning communities alsooffer students the opportunity to getconnected to the OSU community in asmaller setting. In the Pharmacy Houselearning community, faculty membershave talked to students about gettinginvolved in undergraduate research. Thishas allowed students to ask questions ina one-on-one setting and increased theirlikelihood of participating in an undergraduateresearch project. This past year,the students in Baker East, home to theVisual and Performing Arts learning community,had a program called, “Baker EastBeats Homelessness.” This event allowedthe student participants to get involvedin community service and learn moreabout individuals living without homesand ways in which students could getmore involved in service. As you can see,learning communities offer you a greatvariety of events and activities. TheseAllied Medical Professions Learning Community and Nursing Learning Community attend a Cleveland Indians Gameevents and programs help make you feelmore a part of the community at OSUand make it easier for you to form relationshipsand build lasting friendships.Some of the learning communitieshave also gone on trips to study a topicmore closely. For example, the JohnGlenn School of Public Policy learningcommunity travels to Washington, D.C.,every year and visits with politicians totalk about government in action. Whilein D.C., students visit museums andlocal sites to learn more about the cityand have fun together too. Other tripslearning community students havetaken include our Engineering learningcommunity students going to Detroitfor the Auto Show, our InternationalHouse learning community studentsvisiting New York and getting immersedin service as well as the culture andcommunity of New York City. Many ofour learning communities connect withcultural events in Columbus and nearbycities. For example, we have had severallearning communities form trips to seemusicals, such as Wicked.These outstanding events, activities,and trips compliment the everyday funof being a member of a community ofstudents who are studying the same thingsyou are, or are interested in participating inthe same things you do. Within the spaceof these communities there are informalthings that happen every day, like dinnerstogether as a floor, forming an intramuralfootball team, and even getting a studygroup together during mid-terms. Indeed,learning communities both support you asa student at OSU and as a person living inthe residence hall community.We have learning communities witha wide range of topics, including butnot limited to: Visual and PerformingArts, the John Glenn School of PublicPolicy, Nursing, Exploration, AlliedMedical Professions, InternationalHouse, Engineering, Pharmacy, First YearCollegians, and so much more. For moreinformation about learning communitiesplease visit www.housing.osu.edu orcall (614) 292-3930.14

Staying ConnectedA Call to Action for Hispanic AlumniBy Vincent Sanchez, Board Member, OSU Hispanic/Latino Alumni SocietyMost, if not all, will agree that some ofour best memories and friendships werecreated at The Ohio State University. For usHispanics, these experiences were similar tothose of most Buckeyes but with the addedHispanic flair – great memories indeed.Once we depart from the schoolexperience, we become part of anothergreat institution: The Ohio State AlumniAssociation. As you visit the website www.ohiostatealumni.org you will read “StayConnected, Make Ohio State Stronger.”Among other things, you will find news,photos, and the resources aimed towardstaying connected and making our alumniexperience an excellent one.So what is out there for OSU Hispanic/Latino alumni? Nothing is completelyestablished yet, but I am excited toannounce that one is currently beingformed and it’s going to need your participationto succeed!Some OSU Hispanic alumni & friendshave met in the past months and haveshared their interests in bringing theestablishment of the OSU Hispanic/LatinoAlumni Society to fruition. Right now,our main focus is getting students andalumni connected. Some of us would liketo reach back and provide some mentorship/assistanceto current students. Somealumni would like to reconnect and shareresources with other alumni. All of uswould like to stay connected and makeHispanics/Latinos stronger at Ohio State.In these past few months we havebeen fortunate to obtain encouragementand support from the Ohio State AlumniAssociation and from other organizations atOSU. In addition, the Hispanic alumni thatare currently residing outside of Columbushave started to make their presence felt.Last December, with the support of theOrganization of Hispanic Faculty & Staff(OHFS), OSU’s Multicultural Center, LatinoGraduate Student Association and theWexner Center, we were able to co-organizea Graduation Celebration event for ourHispanic/Latino Autumn 2009 Graduatesand the same for each graduating class since.To our recent graduates, we sayCongratulations! We share your pride andcelebrate your accomplishments. We wantto welcome you to the alumni family. Weencourage you to remain connected andto look back as others follow right behind.For 2010, in addition to formallycreating the OSU Hispanic/Latino AlumniSociety, our goal is to coordinate our firstmentoring relationship and grant our firstscholarship.This is only the beginning of what weexpect to become a very active alumnigroup in the next few months. Pleaseconsider actively participating and spreadingthe word.For general inquiries and to find waysto contribute to our efforts, please email usat hispaniclatinosociety@alumni-osu.org.We also have created a Facebook group tokeep you informed on our progress.Go Bucks!!!www.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 15

The Year in PicturesHighlights from the Latino Community During the 2009-2010 School YearL.A.S.E.R. Kick-Off MeetingTaste of OSU2009 – 2010 EventsReception for Latino Graduation16

Hispanic Awareness WeekPHOTO BY GIOVANA COVARRUBIASDr. Mark Hugo Lopez, from the Pew Hispanic Center, speaks at The Ohio State Universitywww.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 17

Mafalda, 1492 + Buckeye NationReflections on Leaving HomeBy Ernesto R. Escoto, Ph.D. Associate Director, Director of Clinical Services | Counseling + Consultation Service | Office of Student LifeCreative CornerTwin siblings, Gabriela and Rodrigo,rushed, sun-scorched drive from Laredoto Houston had been packed with dichos,plenty of consejos, and tears. Dad had driventhe family’s 1998 Jeep Cherokee, with over178,000 noticeable miles (a few exteriordents, a 20 inch-long crack on the windshield,and a driver’s side window that couldonly be lowered about four fingers), andmom had dispensed the advice and farewellwishes of relatives from as far as Morelia,Michoacán, where Gabriela’s and Rodrigo’sgrandparents had been born.At Houston Intercontinental, undermuch stress and with shortness of breath,they slowly moved through the securitycheckpoint. Rodrigo had gone twicethrough the metal screening after forgettingto remove his belt and coins. A fewminutes earlier, at the check-in counter, theyhad been told they might miss their flight.On the way to the airport, the Jeep had hada flat, delaying their planned arrival timeto the airport nearly 45 minutes. Mom anddad had quickly said goodbye and droppedthem at the curb.Rodrigo carried his belt on his hand ashe finished getting his left foot into his shoewhile speed walking to gate C-45. Havingworn sandals, Gabriela was already about100 feet ahead, reading the airport signage.They passed a futuristic out-of-place barand realized they were heading the wrongway. A few minutes later, they found thegate across Houston News Connection,where CNN News blared out of four TVspeakers. They were the last to board. Theflight attendant closed the plane’s dooras soon as they sat in Continental’s flight1492 — as if the plane had been departingfrom Palos de la Frontera, Spain, an-almostfittingflight number.They anxiously smiled at each otheras they buckled their belts. They were lessthan three hours away from their newhome, Buckeye Nation. This new journeyhad started less a year ago and much tothe humor of serendipity itself. Gabrielahad run across her now ex-bf, Julio, outsidethe office of Fernanda Botello, Julio’s highschool counselor, where she spoke withDr. Campos, a dean at Ohio State recruitingstudents at Laredo’s United South HighSchool. Gabriela had walked up to whereJulio and Dr. Campos talked and simplylistened to their conversation.At home, she asked Rodrigo what hethought mom and dad would say if theywere to choose to go somewhere else tocollege rather than UT Pan American, theclosest UT Branch to Laredo. Rodrigo hadsome reservations, but did not discouragehis sister, older by less than seven minutes.Rodrigo had excelled throughout hisacademic career, but had struggled mostof his high school junior year. He found thehigh school oppressive and did not feelunderstood at home. These experienceshad left him feeling powerless and lackingconfidence. Gabriela, as part of her highschool band, had traveled often, visitingMonterrey, Mexico, D.C., Austin, and L.A.,to name a few cities. She had longed togo away for college, but mom and dadwould not have it. If she were to be allowed,Rodrigo had to be part of the plan.She slept little for a few nights, thinkingabout how best to bring Rodrigo on board,then her parents. She bounced her ideaswith her childhood friends, Mila (short forMilagros or Miracle) and Elizabeth, whosemom had recently re-married Dan, a truckerfrom Dayton, Ohio. Dan was a passionateBuckeye fan, license plate and all.Then, it came to her — Botello.Ms. Botello was a transplant from Merida.Like most Yucatecos, her speech was softer,closer to that of Central Americans than herequals from Mexico. She loved Mafalda,who was a year younger than Calvin (fromCalvin and Hobbes) and more socially consciousand concerned about world peace.Botello advised: “Paint your parents thepicture of your life-dream, highlight howOSU would contribute to your dream, andthen suggest how they might contribute to it.”Gabriela got down to polishing her dream,told it to her mirror several times, and thenfaced Rodrigo, mom and dad.Rodrigo came around a lot easier thanshe had thought. Mom and dad took longerto process and finally agreed, with severalconditions. Expected, Gabriela told herself,and quickly agreed to them all. She was tooexcited to think she could now apply to OSUthan to think about the sacrifices her parentswere demanding of her. She had learned alesson, too. Listening and acknowledgingher parents’ perspective and opening upthe window for her to paint her life-dreamin detail. She had not asked for their permissionor approval, but rather asked that theycontribute to her dream. This was importantto her parents. The drug-related violenceacross Rio Grande had recently made themmore aware of the delicate balance betweenhonoring roots and embracing change. Likemost parents, they wanted to help theirchildren achieve their dreams.Nonetheless, anxiety had gotten the bestout of Gabriela during winter. “What if I gotin and Rodrigo didn’t?” “What if the oppositeturn out to be true?” The envelopes arrivedon a rare overcast gloomy day. Then, therewas plenty of time to prepare. In the spring,they traveled to Columbus and were partof a family welcome orientation. This visithelps themvisualize what life might be likeat OSU. And visualize they did. Ms. Botellohad encouraged both Gabriela and Rodrigoto visualize everything from preparingthemselves physically and emotionally fortheir transition and life at OSU to enjoyingand succeeding in their academic and otherschool-related activities. They visualizedbeing part of a community of their choosingand coping with Midwestern winters. After,they graduated from HS and couldn’t waitfor their move to come soon enough.The flight attendant had announcedthe pilot had started the plane’s finaldescent. With perfect enunciation and ahint of daily rehearsal, he added: “Ladiesand gentlemen, as we start our descent,please make sure your seat backs and traytables are in their full upright position…”Gabriela’s mind drifted away to a conversationwith her father: “Make sure to staythe same and change… try new thingswhile caring for the most important thingsin your life; know what they are; in orderto find freedom, you must first sacrificeparts of yourself.” Then, the flight attendantended: “Make sure your seat belt issecurely fastened and all carry-on luggageis stowed underneath the seat in front ofyou or in the overhead bins. Please turnoff all electronic devices until we are safelyparked at the gate. Thank you.”18

www.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 19PHOTO BY BRUNO RIBEIRO

Enforcement-only Immigration Strategies Don’t WorkAn Examination of the Misguided Arizona SB1070 BillBy Yolanda Zepeda, Associate Director, Academic and International Programs, Committee on Institutional Cooperation“Abominations such as apartheid do not start with an entirepopulation suddenly becoming inhumane. … They startPHOTO PROVIDED BY YOLANDA ZEPEDAwith generalizing unwanted characteristics across an entiresegment of a population. They start with trying to solvea problem by asserting superior force over a population.”(Huffington Post, 4/29/2010)Su OpiniónSuch were the cautionary words of BishopDesmond Tutu about Arizona’s new immigrationlaw. He concedes that Arizonaremains a “long way” from South Africa’sapartheid days, and I agree. Still, his comparisonis warranted and instructive.Supporters of SB1070 argue that Arizonaresidents cannot afford the burden thatundocumented workers and their familiesplace on public services. Perceptionsof rising crime and violence also drivesupport for the extreme measures in thebill. While the fears and insecurity experiencedby Arizonans are real, the problemthat feeds their fears has been wronglyattributed to illegal immigration. Thedraconian measures of SB1070 will notprovide the economic and social securitythat Arizonans seek. On the contrary, theyare likely to exacerbate the economic pressureson the state. By directing suspicionand blame toward those with brown skinand “accents,” the bill promotes intoleranceand distrust at the very least. Amongthose who find comfort in a scapegoat,it is more likely to nurture hatred andaggression against a population—thosewith papers and the undocumented—who are already vulnerable to prejudiceand discrimination. Bearing in mindBishop Tutu’s admonition, let us take acloser look at the facts surrounding the“Support Our Law Enforcement and SafeNeighborhoods Act.”What is the problem that SB1070 seeksto resolve?The provisions in this law represent an“enforcement-only” strategy for dealingwith immigration issues, focused solelyon identifying, prosecuting and deportingunauthorized immigrants. They requirelaw enforcement officials to check theimmigration status of anyone suspectedof being undocumented, and make it acrime to harbor an undocumented person,regardless of family relationship. They alsoprovide for the arrest of legal immigrantswho fail to carry their documents withthem at all times. Taking the strategy a stepfurther, SB1070 allows any legal residentto sue if they believe that an agency is notenforcing the law vigorously enough. InTutu’s words, Arizona’s enforcement-onlylaw is “trying to solve a problem by assertingsuperior force over a population.”Supporters argue that unauthorizedworkers take jobs away from “Americans”and depress wages for Arizona workers.Undocumented workers are, in fact,concentrated in some industries andgeographic areas of the country, and inArizona, they are estimated to comprise10-12 percent of the workforce. Yet, theremoval of undocumented workers fromthe state economy will not improveopportunities for legal Arizona workers.The domestic workforce is aging and isbetter educated than in the past, andthus is decreasingly likely to take the lowskill,low-wage jobs that are increasinglyfilled by foreign and often unauthorizedworkers. Moreover, removal of undocumentedworkers from Arizona’s economywould result in a nearly 14 percent loss ofeconomic output and more than 400,000jobs, according to a 2008 study by thePerryman Group.Enforcement-only policies such asSB1070 don’t address the labor needs filledby undocumented workers, but only forcethem into the underground economy. Byremoving unauthorized workers from thepayrolls, local, state and federal governmentsgive up the tax revenues they wouldotherwise generate. Even though a largepercentage of undocumented workersdo pay into Social Security, Medicare andMedicaid, they are not eligible to receivebenefits. Immigrants visit the hospitalemergency room less than U.S.-bornresidents, and recent immigrants are lesslikely to use any health care services at all.Thus, even without considering the cost20

PHOTO BY TH.OMAS, UNDER A CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSEof implementing Arizona’s enforcementonlyapproach, the new law is most likelyto have a negative impact on economicproduction, the job market, and state andlocal budgets.Arizona’s Crime Rate Lowest in DecadesFervent advocates for Arizona’s immigrationlaw connect violence and propertycrime with rising immigrant numbersin the state. The murder of an Arizonarancher by suspected drug smugglerswas held up as emblematic of the dangersstemming from illegal immigration andserved to galvanize support for SB1070.The problem with this argument is thatArizona’s crime rate is lower today thanit has been in four decades. While thenumber of undocumented immigrantshas expanded substantially over the pastdecade, the violent crime rate reportedby the Bureau of Justice has decreased22 percent, and the property crime ratehas dropped 28 percent. Rather than targetingdrug smugglers, a wide net is castover all immigrant families. As Bishop Tutuwarns, “abominations such as apartheid... start with generalizing unwanted characteristicsacross an entire segment of apopulation.”Asserting Superior ForceThe process of generalizingunwanted characteristics to all Latinosis now underway. Recently, the ArizonaDepartment of Education beganinstructing school districts to removeteachers with “heavy” or “ungrammatical”accents from classes for studentslearning English. It should be noted thatArizona actively recruited many teachersfrom Latin America in the 1990s toprovide bilingual instruction. Even morerevealing is the state’s new educationpolicy banning ethnic studies programs,which it describes as courses designedto "advocate ethnic solidarity instead ofthe treatment of pupils as individuals.”Notably, such courses are banned alongwith courses that promote the overthrowof the U.S. government or promote resentmentof a particular race or class of people.Responding to Arizona’s plea for help,the Obama administration has respondedwith a pledge to expand militarizationof the border by sending 1,200 NationalGuard troops to reinforce border security.Soldiers are trained for war not domesticlaw enforcement. Let us not forget theU.S. teen that was mistakenly shot andkilled by U.S. Marines sent to help securethe border in 1997. Militarizing the borderis an expensive burden for taxpayers tobear; it is dangerous and it is not a humaneresponse to our need for immigrationreform.As we see from Arizona’s example,intolerance and aggression might haveinitially been directed at unauthorizedworkers. But SB1070 reaches beyondsuch workers to criminalize anyone whoprovides them shelter, regardless of familystatus. Extending its reach even further,the law criminalized legal immigrants whofail to carry their papers at all times. Andthe latest move is to conquer the spirit ofall Latinos in the state by banning ethnicstudies, and punishing “accented English.”What may have started as a solution to aneconomic problem shows no promise toremedy economic pressures, but seemsto deliver satisfaction by creating a Latinoscapegoat.Arizona’s legislation puts us all atrisk, regardless of ethnic heritage, nativelanguage, or skin color, because it violatesthe basic principles of freedom so fundamentalto this nation. We cannot acceptthat an entire population is stripped ofhuman dignity and basic protection beforethe law without losing our own humanityand without putting our own freedom atrisk. Arizona’s problem is our problem.It is time rethink our immigrationpolicies. We need comprehensive immigrationreform that extends beyond enforcement-onlystrategies. We need reform thatacknowledges the essential labor needsprovided by immigrant workers, but thatalso respects the basic human rights anddignity of those who are providing essentialservices. Mexico is a critical tradingpartner, and the largest source of immigration.Economic policies that don’t benefitboth countries may bring greater profits toindividual corporate interests, but withouteconomic development for Mexico, immigrationpressures will continue.www.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 21

Their Best DayThe Trials and Triumphs of 20 OSU GraduatesOn June 13, 2010 two hundred and fortythreeLatino students graduated from TheOhio State University. Of those, twentyare featured in the following pages. Theirstories are all unique; yet there are manycommonalities within their experiencesat OSU that will connect them to the universityfor life. From major award winnersto first generation success stories, the2010 graduating class is full of inspirationalstories that are representative ofthe larger Latino graduation experience.In addition to the profiles, we were happyto photograph numerous students withtheir families on this special day. Below aresome photographs from graduation day,which are followed by the personal storiesfrom the graduating class of 2010.ALL GRADUATION PHOTOS BY BRUNO RIBEIRO22

Jairo Alza is the first person is hisbeliefs and brought me closer to mylarge campus will give you the oppor-family to attend college in the UnitedHispanic heritage.”tunity to grow and get involved withStates. An active member of theNow having completed his degreeother organizations. OSU has a richSociety of Hispanic Professionalat OSU, Jairo has nothing but positivehistory full of traditions, and to beEngineers (SHPE), Jairo attendedthings to say about his experiences atable to say that you're part of thosenumerous national conferences andOhio State. As a new Alumnus, Jairotraditions is something I would neverJairo M. Alzabenefitted from the training offeredby SHPE. “This has shaped me as astrongly advocates for others to attendOSU. “Not only is the education at Ohiochange for anything in the world.”Trujillo, Perustudent and person,” Jairo told ¿QuéState one of the best in the country,B.S. in Civil EngineeringPasa, OSU? “It helped strengthen mybut attending a university with suchA first generation college student,a scary thing to move here andOne of Candace’s fondestCandace Anderson has spentstart fresh without my family andmemories came during her sopho-the last four years far from home.life-long friends, but I’m proud tomore year at OSU. “I went on a“I came from a small town in Northsay I did it.” Candace graduates as astudy abroad trip to Greece andCarolina that literally has one stopproud member of Alpha Psi Lambdawas walking down the street inlight,” Candace told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU?“and is appreciative for all thedowntown Athens, Greece,” she toldCandace AndersonI didn't know anyone and didn'thave any family within an 800 milesupport she received from them;but Candace has never lost sight¿Qué Pasa, OSU?“I was wearing oneof my Ohio State shirts on and all ofNew Bern, North Carolinaradius. Everything and everyoneof how valuable her parents havea sudden I heard someone yell ‘O-H!’B.A. in HistoryI knew was going to be a 12 hourbeen in this process. “If it wasn't forand without even hesitating I yelleddrive away from me.” Moving so farmy mom pushing me and my dadback ‘I-O!’ I had no idea who thisfrom home is always difficult, butcontinuously reminding me of myperson was but we were immediatelyCandace proved that with deter-own self worth I would have neverconnected because of our love formination anyone can do it. “It wasmade it to Ohio State.”Ohio State and our Buckeye pride.”Hector Brambila is a first genera-Latino students to go into the fieldLake, the KSA and the Wexner Centertion college graduate who was bornof architecture!”for The Arts, four spaces that com-in Mexico but raised in southernHector thoroughly enjoyedpletely make The OSU experience.”New Jersey. As an architectureboth his program and experienceNow a graduate, Hector believesmajor, Hector has spent manyat OSU. “It is difficult to sum up fourothers should strongly considerhours at the Knowlton School ofgreat years at OSU,” he told ¿Québecoming a part of the BuckeyeHector S. BrambilaArchitecture and is happy to havedone so. As a graduate, Hector isPasa, OSU? “But I can say that therehas been an accumulation of greatNation, “People should come to OSUand experience a world class insti-New Jerseya strong advocate for his major,memories: spending all nighters withtution full of resources and also toB.A. in Architecture“It’s definitely been great doingmy friends at the Knowlton School ofinteract with the faculty.” For thosemy studio projects in architec-Architecture finishing up our projects;who are already on the way, Hectorture, getting to know the excel-walking around campus, especiallyhas one bit of advice that was a keylent instructors at the KSA, makingon a beautiful spring day, watchingto his success, “I always kept the mostfriendships with other students,all the students and activities takingimportant people in my life close by,and graduating. I would encourageplace; I’ll never forget the oval, Mirroreven if they were far away.”Jonathan Carmona first appearedinvolved in many activities within thethe classroom, which made me ain ¿Qué Pasa, OSU? as an incomingLatino community and to cultivatemore mature and capable person,”freshmen during the fall of 2005.his professional resume. “I’m proudJonathan told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU? AsFive years later, after being activelythat I achieved a Lean Six Sigmahe closes his career at Ohio State,involved with the Hispanic commu-green belt level certification, and amJonathan joins a chorus of proudnity through organizations like Cantoalso proud that I have saved variousalumni. “The opportunity to meetJonathan CarmonaLatino and SHPE, while simultaneouslyparticipating in extra-curricularcompanies over $4 million throughinternships and side projects I haveand collaborate with people of thehighest intellect has been great.Valencia, Venezuelaactivities such as salsa dancing andbeen involved with.”Coming to OSU has given me count-B.S. in Industrial and Systemsnetworking, Jonathan closes out“The achievement I am mostless opportunities to network withEngineeringhis career at OSU. In his time at OSUproud of is the sum of learning expe-important figures in the realm ofJonathan made a point to both stayriences, both inside and outsideeducation as well as industry.www.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 23

Fabian Gomez is a first gen-he told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU? “Photos arenever gave up. “I thought for sureeration college student fromnice, but having my degree andthat I was never going to finish,Bay Shore, New York who is verybeing in ¿Qué Pasa, OSU?is verybut with hard work and dedica-proud of his Colombian heritage.special.”tion I finally did.” Fabian was veryFabian finished at Ohio StateWhile at Ohio State, Fabianexcited about his accomplish-with his Bachelor of Sciencehad the opportunity to continuement, calling it his best memoryFabian Gomezdegree in Computer Services andEngineering, and is very excitedto do many of the things he loves.“I ride motorcycles, love to bowl,at OSU. “I can take my degree withme and I will always have it. ComeBay Shore, NYabout both finishing his degreeplay racquetball, love my Xboxto OSU for the activities thatB.S. in Computer Science andand about his future. “I want toand being active.” Fabian admitsyou can get involved in and takeEngineeringhave something official to showthat he struggled at times, butadvantage of everything Ohiomy children when they get older,”even in his times of struggles heState has to offer.As the winner of The Katherinebest exemplifies the qualities ofuniversity with a wide networkPorter Allen Prize, presentedbeing active in the communityof alumni.” Beyond her accom-annually to the outstandingand other student organizations.plishments, Catalina values thefemale graduate at the FisherCatalina claims that attainingexperience that attending OSUCollege of Business, Catalinathese accomplishments is aboutprovided. “This has been the mostLizarralde is a first generationhard work. “Anything is possible ifmemorable journey of my life andCatalina Lizarraldecollege student who graduateswith numerous honors andyou work hard for it and if you aredoing it for the right reasons.”I am grateful to not only have myamazing family and friends backQuito, Ecuadoraccomplishments. In addition,According the Catalina, hardat home; but also all those "new"B.A. in Logistics Management andCatalina received The Paul Alfredwork and dedication at Ohio Stateunbelievable people that I haveOperations ManagementBigler Award, presented to thecan pay off big. “If you are proac-met along the way. I am proud ofDelta Sigma Pi (Business frater-tive, OSU will help you open anymy ethnicity and I am proud to benity), Nu Chapter member, whodoor; OSU is a large and diversea buckeye.”Kristina Loredo came to OSU fromto figure myself out. The friends Ihesitate to endorse OSU. “FromTexas and at first found the transi-have made and the people I havemy own experience, I can saytion difficult. “Compared to wheremet will always be a best memorythat OSU has definitely helpedI was from there is not as muchin my book.”me shape into the person I amdiversity as there is here andMore than anything, Kristinatoday,” Christina told ¿Qué Pasa,being a freshman it was a hugeis excited about completingOSU?“My experiences, lessonKristina Y. Loredoculture shock.” Even still, Kristinahas nothing but fond memoriesher education at OSU. “I feelthat graduating is my greatestlearned, and sacrifices madehave helped me see differentlySan Juan, Texaswhen she looks back on thatachievement,” she told ¿Qué Pasa,and most of all appreciate theB.S. in Agriculture majoring in Animalfirst year of adjustment. “MyOSU? “I do not think anything canworld around me. From football,Sciencebest memory would have to beever compare to earning yourto traditions, to a diversified edu-my freshman year in its entirety.undergrad diploma.” Now pre-cation system…it’s definitely aI was straight out of high schoolparing to move on in life, Kristinaplace to experience! There is noin a new and completely differentreflects on the challenges sheother place better than The Ohioplace making new friends tryinghas overcome, but does notState University… O-H-I-O!”Yanira Nieves is a native ofsacrifices to reach OSU. “I had tothe last OSU football game duringPuerto Rico who served in theleave my full time job from themy senior year.” Having fun alongUnited States military in Kuwait.military, after my deployment tothe way, Yanira did not neglect herYanira left the military and dedi-Kuwait, and dedicate all my timestudies, making the dean’s list incated the time and energy nec-and energy to get this done.”both her junior and senior years.essary to complete a B.A. inYanira has many fond“I think OSU is undoubtedly one ofYanira NievesHospitality Management. “Beingin the military, it took me so longmemories from her time at OhioState, but like many, her favoritethe best universities in the countryand its proud tradition and dedi-Puerto Ricoto finish college,” she told ¿Quémoments were in the famouscation to excellence provide youB.A. in Hospitality ManagementPasa, OSU? “But I always dreamedHorseshoe. “Some of my bestwith an amazing experience. I amof the day I was going to finish.”memories are from the stadium.extremely happy that this day hasIndeed, Yanira had to make manyOne of the most memorable wasfinally come!”24

A winner of the prestigious Morrillclasses prepared me, but Ohio StateWith a degree, a job, and a lifetime ofScholarship from the Office of Minorityhas helped to set me up with intern-memories, Desiree has nothing butAffairs (OMA), Desiree Perez graduatesships and even a job already linedpositive things to say about her Almahaving been a member of the Diversityup straight out of college. In April IMater. “Ohio State just seems to have aAmbassadors, a program that focusesreceived an offer from the Columbussense of passion and tradition that noon outreach efforts for minoritiesBlue Jackets to become a permanentother schools can top. It can be a homeDesiree Perezinterested in OSU, and Alpha GammaDelta. Desiree tells ¿Que Pasa, OSU?member of their team as an InsideSales Representative.for anyone, even a girl all the way fromCalifornia. I instantly fell in love withBakersfield, Californiathat Ohio State has not only been anThese two internships were thethe Buckeye Nation and its traditions,B.A. in Sports Leadership andamazing experience; it has preparedkey to Desiree’s success. “I internedsuch as yelling OH-IO, dotting the ‘I’ atHumanitiesher for life after college. In a tightwith the Columbus Blue Jacketsfootball games, and singing Carmeneconomy, OSU is still producing gradu-as a sales intern last spring. I thenOhio. Ohio State is just such an invitingates who are finding employmentreceived a marketing internshipplace and can truly feel like anyone’sstraight out of college. “Not only havewith the Columbus Crew this spring.”home away from home.”Originally from Leon, Guanajuato,day is our day and will serve to inspireworth the sacrifice. Today, I cannotin Mexico, Janet Soto Rodriguez andmy 21 nieces and nephews and otherimagine my life without the opportu-her family established themselves inLatino youth who may be struggling tonities I have been blessed with here atOhio as a seasonal working migrantbelieve that they can be successful inOSU.” In her finest hour, thus far, Janet’sfamily. Janet is a proud graduate, ahigher education.”thoughts remain with the Latino com-first generation college student, andFew stories can match Janet’s:munity and her future is directedJanet Soto Rodriguezby all measures a tremendous successstory. Though her family faced manynearly orphaned for financial reasons,often questioned for her decision totoward serving Latinos everywhere.“With the support of faculty and staff,Painesville, Ohiochallenges, they insisted that Janetgo to college, and finally vindicatedas well as the support of my family, IB.A. in Political Scienceremain in school; she took full advan-in her success, Janet is proud to beam now graduating and am preparedtage of her opportunity and workedsetting a new standard for both herto help create a better future for otherher way into a B.A. in one of the bestfamily and the local community. “Whileyoung aspiring Latinos.” We have noprograms at OSU. “In essence then, thisthe journey was difficult, it was welldoubt she will succeed.Ketrina Skillman came to OSU fromat various social gatherings, teachingand started freaking out because itsParadise, California, a small town justpeople how to have ‘Latin hips’ whenmouth was burning.” Throughout,east of Chico. From her first day onsalsa dancing.”Ketrina’s outgoing attitude helpedcampus, Ketrina has taken a goodAs Ketrina moves on and becomesmake Ohio State seem like home.attitude and made her Ohio Statea medical missionary in Africa, she“The Ohio State University is a hugeexperience the best if could be. “I havetakes with her a strong education andschool, but it always felt smaller to me;Ketrina Skillmanthoroughly enjoyed Ohio State, especiallymeeting people from variousa lifetime of memories. I remembertaking a study break to dance to "FreakI've never crossed campus withoutrunning into someone I know,” KetrinaParadise, Californiabackgrounds and cultures. I haveOut" with my freshman roommate.told ¿Que Pasa, OSU? “Those kindB.S. in Biology, B.A. in Internationalbeen able to share part of my MexicanThere was the time that Erica and Iof interconnections create a familyStudiesculture with my fellow students bydecided to hula hoop on the oval. Theatmosphere. From the first visit I felthaving a piñata at one of my birthdayday I gave a duck at Mirror Lake Gardenthat I was more than a number; I wasparties, making my Mom's enchiladasSalsa flavored sun chips and it honkedpart of something.”Another first generation collegeup quickly. Luckily at Ohio State,better university to attend, thegraduate, Jess Stincer came from athere are several programs bothsupport from faculty and staff isfamily that really emphasized thein the dorms and around campusamazing.” For Jess Stincer her rela-importance of education. “Havingaimed for students like myself.”tionship with OSU did not end withnever attended college, theyWith her family in mind, Jessgraduation. “I loved OSU so much,wanted me and my sisters to haveworked hard and was acceptedI accepted a job at the Ohio StateJess Stincerthings and be able to do thingsthey never had the chance to do.”into the program at the Schoolof Allied Medical Professions. “MyMedical Center!” Making the mostof the opportunities before her, JessMarietta, OhioStill, the transition to Ohio State wasacceptance into my major was thebegins her career as an HIM pro-B.S. in Health Information Managementnot without its challenges. “I didn'tbest thing that has happened tofessional and can’t envision beingand Systemsexactly know what I was gettingme during my career as a studentanywhere else. “I couldn't imaginemyself into. Moving two hours awayat Ohio State,” she told ¿Que Pasa,finding a better place to go tofrom home really forced me to growOSU? “I couldn't have chosen acollege or to begin my career!”www.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 25

Originally from Medellin, Colombia,Additionally, Julian interpreted for awith work here at OSU where I wasJulian Valencia grew up in the D.C. area.professor doing research at Clinicaalways working between 20-40 hoursHe has been an active member of theLatina; spent a summer as an assis-a week.” Having accepted a positionLatino community since his first yeartant English teacher in a ESOL class forwith Teach for America in Miami,at OSU. As a member of the HispanicSomali refugees; and still volunteers forFlorida, Julian leaves OSU with a loveBusiness Student Organization, a rep-Third Hand, which teaches low incomefor his alma mater, “What makes OSUJulian Valenciaresentative of UCHO, and the presidentof the club sport wrestling team, Julianpeople how to repair their own bikesso that they can commute to schoolsuch a great is its size and academiccaliber.” To those just starting at OSU,Washington D.C.has poured himself into the universitywhile living in an environmentally con-Julian has some parting advice, “Go toB.A. in International Development,community. Additionally, Julian wasscious manner.every academic discussion that sparksEconomics, Spanishactive in the greater Columbus area,“I was able to do all of this despiteyour interest and ask questions. Go tovolunteering his time to interpret forbeing a low income, first generationorganization meetings whether theyan organization called Kid Save, whichcollege student coming from a singleare academic, athletic, political, orworked to get kids from Colombiaparent household,” Julian told ¿Quesocial, and I guarantee you you'll makeadopted by local Columbus families.Pasa, OSU? “I always balanced schoollifetime friends.”Brenda Vargas is proud to come frombecause of language barriers, my5 years in college I am graduating withan ordinary hard working Hispanicparents could not work in their pro-absolutely no debt.” Brenda notes thatfamily that migrated to America andfessions here… To see their daughterOSU offers so many resources, such assettled in south Texas in search of aenrolled in one the best universities inclinics on how to write resumes, tutorsbetter life. Leaving their occupations inthe U.S. is something they are definitelyfor every course, but maintains that theMexico to take jobs in Texas, Brenda’sproud of.”professors are the best part of going toBrenda Vargasparents wanted to give their familythe best opportunities they could. “IAlthough she worked a job duringher entire OSU career, Brenda completedOSU. By utilizing the resources here andworking hard, Brenda was able make theHouston, Texasremember just how proud my parentsher B.A. in five years. “Many Hispanicsmost of her time at OSU. “I would like forB.A. in International Studies with awere when I first moved here to go tohave the assumption that to attendanyone who reads this and is thinking ofminor in Businesscollege,” Brenda told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU?college you need to come from a well offattending college to remember that it“Even though I’m not a first genera-family, that’s not true.” Brenda told ¿Quedoesn’t matter where you come from; ittion college student, it is still a big deal;Pasa, OSU? “I am proud to say that afteronly matters where you’re going.”Luis Carbajal has been a Buckeye forPsi Lambda and through them I madeand getting published was my greatestseven years, first as an undergraduatefriends that will be with me for a lifetime.”achievement by far. It was such a longand now in graduate school. “I was ableAs an M.S. student, Luis was ablejourney and so much work. It feltto accomplish so much with all theto perform primary research andgreat having that first breakthroughresources that were available to me,” Luisanalysis that ultimately lead to thein understanding my research andtold ¿Qué Pasa, OSU? “I was involved incompletion of his degree. He creditsactually having positive results.” Credit,Luis Carbajalall parts of campus life and had a greattime whenever I wasn’t studying.” Whilehis advisor, Professor Jose Castro, forhis success, “His guidance and dedica-however, does not just go to Luis’program and advisors. “I have to thankMéxico, D.F., Mexicopursuing his studies, Luis sought outtion to my research made the differ-my family, especially my mother whoM.S. in Integrated Systems Engineeringstudent groups that shared both hisence.” Through these efforts, Luis washas always pushed me to do my bestinterests and passions. “I was able to findable to both complete his thesis andand my father whose spirit will alwaysa home with groups like SHPE and Alphaget published in his field. “My thesisbe with me.”Jaime Guajardo Jr. is a first generationresources without familial guidance,was electrifying and it cemented me ascollege graduate, but he is far from beingJaime excelled and has now completeda lifelong Buckeye fan.” The Buckeyesfinished with his education. “For manyhis M.S.W. in Social Work. “I am ecstaticwon that game 42-39. Thankful for allfirst-generation college students achiev-to have been granted the privilegedthe memories, Jaime still appreciates theing a B.A is their lifelong dream. However,opportunity to attend and graduatelove and support of his family most ofI think achieving a B.A is a stepping stone,from this amazing, diverse, and progres-all. I would like to thank all my family forJaime Guajardo Jr.and that they should strive to continueon to graduate education.” Though theysive university.”Though Jaime has many greatbeing so understanding, my wife Laura,and daughter Miranda for giving me theSan Juan, Texashad not been to college, Jaime’s parentsmemories, he notes that among hisinspiration support during my graduateM.S.W. in Social Workworked tirelessly to instill the importancebest are of the great rivalry betweeneducation,” Jaime told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU?of education in their children. WhileOSU and Michigan. “My best memory“Mom and Dad, thank you for all of thebeing a first generation college studentfrom OSU would have to be the Ohiosacrifices you have made so that myhad many challenges, including learningState vs. Michigan football game insiblings and I could have the opportunityhow to study, schedule, and locate2006. The atmosphere for that gameto obtain a college education.”26

Juliana Ramirez is the first person inother students in spring 2008 was unfor-school psych intern in the entire district.”her family to complete her M.A. andgettable.” After just five years at OSU,With her accomplishments so fresh, Julianathe first person in her family to attendJuliana has now completed both her B.A.offers advice to prospective students. “Youcollege outside of her native Colombia.and M.A. in Psychology. “I'm 23 and grad-need to be dedicated and ALWAYS keep“Completing a bachelor’s degree anduating with a Master's degree in Schoolyour goals in mind, never lose sight of whatgraduate degree here in the US is defi-Psychology--not a lot of people can sayyou want to achieve and just continue toJuliana Ramireznitely a first for my family,” Juliana told¿Qué Pasa, OSU? “My best memory fromthat!”With success at OSU comes success inpush forward,” Juliana told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU?“People should come to OSU becausePereira, Colombiamy time at OSU has probably beenlife, and Juliana is already experiencing thethe education is great, the school spirit isM.A. in School Psychologymy undergraduate commencementbeginning of that success as the only Latinaout of this world, and the community is soceremony. Being at the stadium, expe-in her program. “I will be interning next yearextremely supportive of its students. Forriencing graduation at that level andfor Columbus City Schools and am proud toLatinos, it’s a great place to make a differ-sharing those experiences with 7,000say I will be the only bilingual and biculturalence and become marketable.”Gustavo Wille has lived in four dif-ultimately led Gustavo to Ohio State,Gustavo did several presentations onferent countries, speaks five differentwhere he was an active member ofhis home country of Brazil, contribut-languages, and comes from a familythe Fisher Latino Graduate Association.ing to the Fisher emerging marketsthat is no stranger to education. “My“OSU is just an awesome place forfield of study. “I am proud to havefather did his masters and Ph.D. andyou to learn, not only the academicpositively represented my country.” Inmy mother her master's, both atlearning, but to learn how to have aaddition to his accomplishments as aGustavo WilleColorado State University,” Gustavotold ¿Qué Pasa, OSU? “They have alwaysbetter view of the world.”Though he is proud to have culti-student, Gustavo succeeded in acquiringa lifetime worth of memories. “MyCuritiba, Brazilsupported me and my sister in ourvated his worldview, Gustavo remainsbest memory might be graduation,”M.B.A.desire to be global citizens, and I wasabove all else a proud Brazilian. “IGustavo told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU? “Sincefortunate enough to have the chancefeel like my achievements here havethat has yet to come, I would say myto live in France, Germany, the U.S., andbeen as an advocate for Brazil whilebest memory here is of all the peopleBrazil.” His desire to be a global citizenmaintaining a global focus.” In fact,I met and friends I made.”Claudia completes her Ph.D. as a proudgreat things and great people andlive by experiencing the many differentColombian and hopes above all elseit is wrong when people make jokesthings that surround them. Among all ofthat her degree helps redefine the wayand refer to Colombia in terms of themy experiences and the ones to come,people view her nation. “I would likeviolence or narcotraffic.”the one that will forever stand out to meto show that beyond the bad public-Such misperceptions have donethe most is at OSU.” Through her happi-ity and social problems in my country,nothing to take away from Claudia’sness at accomplishing highest of edu-Claudia BerdugoColombians are outstanding workerswho are committed to education; weexperiences here at OSU. “Throughoutmy college years here at The Ohio Statecational honors, Claudia remains fixatedon redefining the nation she calls home.Colombiabelieve in the power of personal effort,University I have encountered many“I wish I could do more to change thePh.D. in Chemical Engineeringand that such efforts will lead to success.”highs and lows of life that will foreverimage of Colombia, and I know manyFor Claudia, the misconceptions aboutleave a mark in how I view the worldColombians would like to do the same;her nation are troubling. “Colombia isaround me,” she told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU? “Lifethat is why this accomplishment is moresuch a beautiful country with so manycan only make a person grow, learn andthan just the diploma.”Diana Ruggiero is a highly deco-being successful and being a goodlanguage skills in a manner that keepsrated academic who has been atperson to others!them interested and motivated.” TheOSU for the entirety of her collegeWith all her success as an academic,proof is always in the results, and Diana’scareer. Diana graduated with honorsDiana still remains primarily devoted tostudents have actively continued theiras an undergraduate at OSU and asthe craft of teaching. “Teaching Spanishpursuit of the language. Many formera Fulbright Scholar. She has spent ais my life,” Diana told ¿Qué Pasa, OSU? “Tostudents have entered study abroadDiana Ruggierogood deal of time in Ecuador, whereshe filmed a documentary on theme, a large part of teaching is figuringout how people learn. I am passion-programs and continue to communicatewith Diana and cultivate their masteryArgentinaAfro-descendents of Ecuador. In 2004,ate about education because I am aof the language. “My students neverPh.D. in Latin American Literature andDiana won one of the university’sconstant learner myself.” In the class-forget how much I love to teach them,CultureDistinguished Teaching Awards forroom, Diana strives to promote cross-and the passion and energy I devote toher work in the classroom as a Spanishcultural awareness and appreciation. “Itheir education is often translated intoteacher, “And now I am getting a PhD.believe that my enthusiastic, cultural-their passion to think and learn, and thatI think I am a good example of whattechnological approach to teachingis why teaching Spanish is my life.” A life¿Qué Pasa, OSU? is about: being Latino,Spanish enables students to acquirewell spent, but only just beginning.www.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 27

Spring 2010 GraduatesBachelor’s DegreesSpring 2010 GraduatesName Citizen Major Degree CollegeAboukar, Mariam F USA Nutrition BSNutritn EHEAcosta, Olivia Cristina USA Speech and Hearing Science B.A. SBSAlvarez, Amanda Nicole USA Criminology B.A. SBSAlza, Jairo Manuel Peru Civil Engineering BSCivilEng ENGAnderson, Candace E USA History B.A. HUMArellano, Antonio Salomon USA Communication B.A. SBSArozarena, Michelle Marie USA Fashion and Retail Studies BSHumnEcol EHEArreguin, Kathleen Christen USA English B.A. HUMArrowsmith, Matthew Peter USA Biology BacScience BIOArsuaga, Andres Javier USA Finance BSBusAdmin BUSAvila, Robert T. USA Operations Management BSBusAdmin BUSBarrera III, Federico Gomez USA Economics B.A. SBSBarwari, Vian Ines Silva USA Psychology BacScience SBSBellville, Julie Ann USA International Studies B.A. ASCBellville, Julie Ann USA Political Science B.A. SBSBenavides, Kathryn Lynne USA Biochemistry BacScience BIOBennett, Alison Janine USA Fashion and Retail Studies BSHumnEcol EHEBlum, Ashlin Cole USA Psychology BacScience SBSBodie Jr., Michael Joseph USA Biology BacScience BIOBonacci, Robert Anthony USA Microbiology BacScience BIOBonilla, Carlos Humberto Colombia Aero and Astronautical Eng BSAerAstrE ENGBooker, Anamaria USA Respiratory Therapy BSAlldHthP AMPBrambila, Hector S USA Architecture BSArchtctr AHRBucio, Ryan Alfredo USA Mechanical Engineering BSMechEng ENGCabrera, Jessica Marie USA Communication B.A. SBSCaddell, Ryan James USA Pharmaceutical Sciences BSPharmSci PHRCardenas, Kayla USA Music B.A. MUSCarmona, Jonathan Alexander USA Industrial and Systems Eng BSIndSysEn ENGCepeda, Ronald USA International Studies B.A. ASCChristopher, Stefanie Marie USA Biology BacScience BIOChristy, Stephen Anthony USA Architecture BSArchtctr AHRClark, Melissa Elsa USA Sociology B.A. SBSCodoner, Brenda Suzette USA International Studies B.A. ASCCodoner, Brenda Suzette USA History of Art B.A. ARTCohen, Lauren Elizabeth USA International Studies B.A. ASCColon, Daniel F USA Communication B.A. SBSCorretjer, Henry James USA Civil Engineering BSCivilEng ENGCortez, Mark A USA Communication B.A. SBSCouto, Jason I USA Animal Sciences BSAgricltr AGRCovarrubias, Gina M USA Human Devlp and Family Science BSHumnEcol EHECruz, Jill Miranda USA International Studies B.A. ASCCzapranski, Sarah Marie USA Animal Sciences BSAgricltr AGRDe Los Santos, Cristina USA Communication B.A. SBSDehorta, Derek Luis USA Anthropology B.A. SBSDeLeon, Lauren Michelle USA Medical Dietetics BSAlldHthP AMPDelerme, Simone Lilli USA International Business Admin BSBusAdmin BUSDelgado, Sarah Ann USA Animal Sciences BSAgricltr AGRDuran, Andon Joseph USA Criminology B.A. SBSElston, Renee Melissa USA Fashion and Retail Studies BSHumnEcol EHEEscobar Alfaro, Francisco Javier Chile Electrical and Computer Eng BSElecComE ENGFairman, Mallory Claire USA Nursing BS Nursing NURFanelli, Kayla Annmarie USA Spanish B.A. HUMFerguson, Kyla Linn USA Biology BacScience BIOFigueroa, Kristina Damaris USA Exercise Science Education BS Educ EHEFlores, Ciara Marie USA Anthropology B.A. SBSFlores, Michael Allen USA International Studies B.A. ASCFranchi, Michael USA Psychology B.A. SBSFranco, Michael Anthony USA History B.A. HUMFrancus, David Alexander USA Art B FineArts ARTGarcia, Anna Patricia USA Geography B.A. SBS28

Name Citizen Major Degree CollegeGarcia, Jessica Erin USA Biology BacScience BIOGibson, Laura Mae USA Early & Middle Childhood Edu BS Educ EHEGomez, Fabian USA Computer Science & Engineering BSCompScEn ENGGonzales, Elizabeth Marianne USA Political Science B.A. SBSGonzalez, Ashley R USA Spanish B.A. HUMGranados-Lambea, Manuel Mexico Electrical and Computer Eng BSElecComE ENGGreenwood, Brittany Nichole USA Logistics Management BSBusAdmin BUSGuzman, Janitzio Jiovanni USA Microbiology BacScience BIOHancock, Lauren Micheal USA Political Science B.A. SBSHeinlein, Edward Charles USA Chemical Engineering BS ChemEng ENGHernandez, Alvaro Enrique USA Aero and Astronautical Eng BSAerAstrE ENGHernandez, Eric C USA Industrial and Systems Eng BSIndSysEn ENGHernandez, Katisha Luz USA Film Studies B.A. ASCHernandez, Ricardo Andres USA Theatre B.A. ARTHerrera, Barbara Lissette USA International Studies B.A. ASCHerrera, Barbara Lissette USA Economics B.A. SBSHiguera, Rafael Enrique Colombia Electrical and Computer Eng BSElecComE ENGHolovatyk, Alexia USA Psychology BacScience SBSHopp, Andrew W. USA Spanish B.A. HUMHuerta, Kateri USA Spanish B.A. HUMHussey, Grant Rogers USA International Studies B.A. ASCJustiniano, Carla Francesca USA Molecular Genetics BacScience BIOKallile, David Philip USA Biology BacScience BIOKleven, Kaitlin Antonia USA Logistics Management BSBusAdmin BUSLeon, Laura Colombia Industrial Design BS Design ARTLima, Natalie Marie USA History B.A. HUMLizarralde, Catalina Ecuador Logistics Management BSBusAdmin BUSLopez, Alexandra Anne USA Psychology B.A. SBSLopez, Gabriel USA Performance Bac Music MUSLoredo, Kristina Y. USA Animal Sciences BSAgricltr AGRLovato, Joshua Ryan USA Microbiology BacScience BIOLovera, Ian Robert USA Criminology B.A. SBSLuempert, Amy Jill USA Sport and Leisure Studies BS Educ EHEMachicado, Rachel Marie USA Psychology B.A. SBSMaile, Jeff J. USA Social Work BSSocWork SWKMaldonado, Jason Luis USA Human Devlp and Family Science BSHumnEcol EHEMartinez, Bianka Yvonne USA Women's Studies B.A. HUMMartinez, Elaine K. USA Medical Technology BSAlldHthP AMPMartinez, Lindsey Marie USA English B.A. HUMMartinez, Sharon Alicia USA Environmental Policy & Mgmt BSEnvNatRe ENRMason, Everdeen Beatriz Penelope USA Journalism BAJournal SBSMattila, Raymond Carl USA Art B.A. ARTMeadows, Irene Jasmine USA English B.A. HUMMesa, Jaklyn Nicole USA Animal Sciences BSAgricltr AGRMiller, Cristina USA Human Devlp and Family Science BSHumnEcol EHEMorenocruz, Maria Elena Mexico Dental Hygiene BSDentHygn DHYMoya Preston, Alejandra USA Portuguese B.A. HUMMoya Preston, Alejandra USA International Studies B.A. ASCMoyer, Amber Nicole USA Political Science B.A. SBSMunoz, Robert Patrick USA Journalism BAJournal SBSMyers, Daniel Ernst USA Industrial and Systems Eng BSIndSysEn ENGNeco, Juan Carlos USA English B.A. HUMNieves, Yanira USA Hospitality Management BSHsptyMgt EHEOcasio, David Taylor USA Philosophy B.A. HUMOlivera, Vanessa Marie USA Communication B.A. SBSOrahood, Sarah Marie USA Communication B.A. SBSOrtega, Alison USA International Studies B.A. ASCOrtiz, Jennifer Michelle USA Fashion and Retail Studies BSHumnEcol EHEOrtiz, Patrice USA Nursing BS Nursing NURPalacio, Marco Colombia Aero and Astronautical Eng BSAerAstrE ENGPena, Clarissa Maria USA Psychology B.A. SBSPeoples, Jessica Rose USA Psychology BacScience SBSPerez, Desiree Alyce USA Sport and Leisure Studies BS Educ EHEPerez, Julio Edwardo USA International Studies B.A. ASCPerez, Michael Andrew USA Architecture BSArchtctr AHRPerez, Nicole USA Animal Sciences BSAgricltr AGRPerez, Robert Armand USA Finance BSBusAdmin BUSwww.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 29

Spring 2010 GraduatesName Citizen Major Degree CollegePeters, Robert F USA Landscape Horticulture BSAgricltr AGRPinto, Luiz Brazil Finance BSBusAdmin BUSPizzitola, Gilda USA Industrial and Systems Eng BSIndSysEn ENGPoole, Dylan Allen USA Mechanical Engineering BSMechEng ENGRamirez, Maria Dolores Spain Logistics Management BSBusAdmin BUSRapaport, Andrew Michael USA Economics B.A. SBSRay, Richard Allen USA Construction Systems Mgmt BSAgricltr AGRRepasky, Sarah Elizabeth USA Biology BacScience BIOReyes, Waly Esmelin Dominican Republic Accounting BSBusAdmin BUSRibe, Marc Albert USA Construction Systems Mgmt BSAgricltr AGRRivera, David Anthony USA Criminology B.A. SBSRobbins, Chris Davis USA Geography B.A. SBSRodriguez, Juan Jose USA Electrical and Computer Eng BSElecComE ENGRodriguez, Kristin Leigh USA Animal Sciences BSAgricltr AGRRodriguez-Santos, Maria M USA Nutrition BSNutritn EHERojas, Michael P USA Computer Science & Engineering BSCompScEn ENGRosen, Andrew Irving USA Political Science B.A. SBSRubeck, Jaasiel USA Criminology B.A. SBSRuiz, Sergio Lee USA International Studies B.A. ASCRutherford, Andrea Marie USA Molecular Genetics BacScience BIOSanchez, Eric Javier USA Consumer and Family Fincl Serv BSHumnEcol EHESantos, Jeremiah USA Electrical and Computer Eng BSElecComE ENGSerrano, Jacqueline Elizabeth USA Biology BacScience BIOSerrano, Mario USA Art B FineArts ARTSilva, Dalia Mexico Psychology B.A. SBSSkillman, Ketrina Joy USA Biology BacScience BIOSmith, Ryan Andrew USA Computer & Information Science BacScience MPSSnouffer, Wade F. USA Biology BacScience BIOSosa, John Manuel USA Materials Sci and Engineering BSMatSciEn ENGSoto Rodriguez, Janet C USA Political Science B.A. SBSStalevicz, April Marie USA Circulation Technology BSAlldHthP AMPStanton, James Carlos USA Finance BSBusAdmin BUSStincer, Jessica Ryan USA Health Information Management BSAlldHthP AMPStinchcomb, James Gilbert USA Economics B.A. SBSStraub, Calvin Joseph USA Civil Engineering BSCivilEng ENGTejada, Jacob A USA Construction Systems Mgmt BSAgricltr AGRThornton, Alicia Francisca USA Medical Dietetics BSAlldHthP AMPTorma, Kevin Andrew USA Biology BacScience BIOTurk, Gabriel Nicholas USA Communication B.A. SBSUchaker, Evan Daniel USA Materials Sci and Engineering BSMatSciEn ENGValencia, Julian C. USA Economics B.A. SBSValencia, Julian C. USA Spanish B.A. HUMValle, Alana Maria USA Political Science B.A. SBSVargas, Brenda Arizbeth USA International Studies B.A. ASCVasquez, Sophia Renee' USA Communication B.A. SBSVela, Cory Michael USA Pharmaceutical Sciences BSPharmSci PHRVillasmil, Diego Alberto USA International Studies B.A. ASCWade, Ashely SuZen USA English B.A. HUMWeidinger, Nicolas Arthur USA Industrial Design BS Design ARTWestern, Scott Colin USA Criminology B.A. SBSWevodau, Rachel Yvonne USA International Studies B.A. ASCWhitby, Ryan Scott USA Architecture BSArchtctr AHRWise, Eddie Wesley USA Civil Engineering BSCivilEng ENGZabala, Lucas Colombia Agribusiness and Applied Econ BSAgricltr AGRZayas, Amanda USA International Studies B.A. ASCZuniga, Heath A. USA Human Devlp and Family Science BSHumnEcol EHEZweier, Dawn Michelle USA Political Science B.A. SBS30

Master's DegreesName Citizen Major Degree CollegeAlvarez, Jimmy M USA Chemistry M.S. MPSAzcarate, Carolina Peru Food Science and Technology M.S. AGRBarclay, Marguerith L Peru Labor and Human Resources M.L.H.R. BUSBeiter, Annamaria USA Architecture MastArch AHRBiersack, Michelle Rosita USA Nursing M.S. NURBretz, Jacqueline Therese USA Music MasterMus ARTCarbajal, Luis R USA Industrial and Systems Eng M.S. ENGCastro Wille, Gustavo Ferreira De Brazil Master of Business Admin MBusAdmin BUSChiacchiarelli, Leonel Matias Argentina Materials Sci and Engineering M.S. ENGConcha, Jorge Arturo Chile Master of Business Admin MBusAdmin BUSCruz, Samuel Souza Da Brazil Spanish & Portuguese MasterArts HUMDunsten, Katelyn Elizabeth USA Labor and Human Resources M.L.H.R. BUSGrippa, Gregory Paul USA City and Regional Planning MastCRP AHRGuajardo, Jaime USA Social Work MSocWork SWKGuarana, Cristiano Levi Oseliero Brazil Labor and Human Resources M.L.H.R. BUSHartman, Nicole Marie USA Master of Accounting MAccount BUSKort, Kathryn Delgado USA Nursing M.S. NURKriebel, Mariano Costa Rica Dentistry M.S. DENLessells, Marie Lourdes USA Education:Teaching & Learning MEducation EHELouisin, Brenda Elisa USA Education:Phy Act & Ed Srvc MasterArts EHEMagana, Andrea Danielle USA Education:Teaching & Learning MEducation EHEMarko, Stephen William USA Education:Phy Act & Ed Srvc MasterArts EHEMeek, Haiquis Dominican Republic Labor and Human Resources M.L.H.R. BUSMejias, Nicole Michelle USA Social Work MSocWork SWKMontoya, Valerie Nicole USA City and Regional Planning MastCRP AHRPuffenberger, Synthia Sandoval USA Psychology MasterArts SBSSampe, Caterinna Triana USA Labor and Human Resources M.L.H.R. BUSSantos, Alejandra M USA Food Science and Technology M.S. AGRSaunders, Stephanie Delgado USA Labor and Human Resources M.L.H.R. BUSYates, Catherine Jean USA Public Health (MPH) MPubHlth PBHZaldivar, Sara Spain Veterinary Clinical Sciences M.S. VMEDoctoral DegreesName Citizen Major Degree CollegeBarbieri, Maria Del Rosario Argentina Plant Cellular and Molecular B PhD BIOBeltran-Aponte, Maria T. Colombia Spanish & Portuguese PhD HUMBennett, Georgina Connie USA Law Juris Doct LAWBerdugo, Claudia I Colombia Chemical Engineering PhD ENGBidwell, Steven T. USA Law Juris Doct LAWBoss, Michael Anthony USA Physics PhD MPSCamero, Corrine Michelle USA Veterinary Medicine DocVetMed VMECase, John J. USA Law Juris Doct LAWCastillo, Milca Elisabeth USA Law Juris Doct LAWCedillos, Jose Moises El Salvador Law Juris Doct LAWDe La Garza, Andrew USA History PhD HUMGould, Zachary Logan USA Law Juris Doct LAWKallile, Michael Edward USA Medicine Med Doctor MEDKuhn, Sonia E. USA Veterinary Medicine DocVetMed VMELomeli, Matthew Charles USA Medicine Med Doctor MEDLugo, Anibal Molina USA Medicine Med Doctor MEDLuna, Kimberly Nicole USA Dentistry D.D.S. DENMontes, David Hector USA Law Juris Doct LAWNewman, Loriana Kathryn USA Medicine Med Doctor MEDOlivo, Julio C USA Education:Phy Act & Ed Srvc PhD EHERamirez, Abigail N USA Law Juris Doct LAWRocha, Claudio M Brazil Education:Phy Act & Ed Srvc PhD EHERubio Diaz, Daniel Emilio Peru Food Science and Technology PhD AGRRuggiero, Diana Mabel Argentina Spanish & Portuguese PhD HUMRuiz-Bueno, John Charles USA Law Juris Doct LAWSierra Hernandez, Maria Roxana Mexico Environmental Science PhD AGRWilliams, Kara Marie USA Optometry DoctorOpt OPTCestari, Manuel Jesus Venezuela Circulation Technology CrtPBCircT AMPwww.quepasa.osu.edu Summer Quarter 2010 31