The Latinx Experience

Transcript

Montclair State University is the largest Hispanic serving institution in New Jersey. It’s a place where Latinx students feel they belong, where they succeed and where they thrive. That’s been the experience of Hunter, a junior business administration major with a concentration in marketing. He’s from Elizabeth, New Jersey. And is on track to be the first college graduate in his family. Take it away, hunter.

– Thanks, Alex. What’s good everyone. Growing up Peruvian and Colombian family was always the most important thing to me. Both my parents worked so hard for their son to be a first generation college student. And I knew since day one, Montclair was the place for my story to begin. There’s a lot to love here at Montclair State University. Growing up, I was exposed to a ton of diversity, but coming to Montclair was a game changer. I love the support that Hispanic community has for one another here. It really does resemble that one of a huge family. I’m involved with an organization, the Brotherhood La Hermanda, an organization here on campus, and I so happen to be the creative director. We better serve Latino and black men in our everyday academic and social lives. We want to destroy the stereotype that we cannot succeed because of the color of our skin, but instead thrive and build a culture to be one respected by all members of society. Montclair State University is a place where we can succeed the magazine Hispanic outlook on education. Listen, Montclair State University is top 100 colleges for Hispanic students for the past 18 years. The US education trust describes Montclair State University as a top gap closer, increasing graduation rates for minority students. My father would always say, it doesn’t matter what you do in this life, but it’s how you do it, and if you’re happy doing it. And I can honestly say I’m my happiest here at Montclair State University. The community and the connections that I have made will last me a lifetime. What else you got, Alex.

– Thank you, Hunter, for sharing your story and congratulations on all your successes. At Montclair State University, 30% of this year’s freshman class identify as Hispanic. And many of the Hispanic and Latinx students across campus share similar stories, a persistence in making the most of their college experience and making their families proud.