Katherine Howe
reporter
The Juntos program hosted an event called “A Latin@ Success Story” Oct. 14 on South Campus that featured Owen Sáenz, a first-year medical student who faced and overcame his adversities to receive higher education.
Sáenz discussed his challenges, how he was introduced to Latino leaders and how he found a community that changed his life.
“Imagine if we had that mentorship for all the kids. What a different world this would be,” Sáenz said. “If we had those mentorships and those opportunities to meet people who are influential and come from a similar background from you and who motivates you, it could change your life.”
South success coach Elvis Martinez said the goal of the Juntos program is to support first-time-in-college students toward their completion of an associate degree while creating a cultural awareness of Mexican-American and Latino studies.
“We always tell people to come to us so that we can be your support system. That way if you need anything we are here to help you,” Martinez said. “That’s what the Juntos learning community is all about. It’s a familia where we come together to support each other but also to learn about each other.”
South student Nayeli de la Cruz attended the event along with several other members of the Juntos program.
“What I like most about the Juntos program is that there is a network of Spanish speakers who collaborate to bring awareness to the challenges faced in the Hispanic community,” de la Cruz said. “I like that we see each other often, make connections and celebrate the Hispanic culture to develop a community within the group.”
