Reflecting on my time at UIUC and what the future holds, I have come to the conclusion that, although life’s path is often unpredictable, the friends, professional skills, connections, and most importantly the memories I’ve built through ALPFA will remain with me forever. Transitioning to UIUC as a transfer student was a significant shift, especially entering a predominantly white institution (PWI) as a first-generation Hispanic college student pursuing a career in finance. I had various times where I felt isolated during my community college journey, navigating an unfamiliar academic and professional landscape without peers who shared my background, experiences, or career ambitions. By joining ALPFA at UIUC, I discovered that I was not alone. Through ALPFA, I discovered a supportive community of individuals who shared my background and career aspirations. I found both active and alumni mentors and peers who understood the challenges and struggles I faced and could provide guidance on navigating both my career and academic paths. ALPFA has allowed me to take pride in my heritage and give back to the community while striving for excellence in an ever competitive field. Beyond professional development, ALPFA has given me and countless others a sense of belonging and confidence, making our individual career and personal journeys at UIUC not only more impactful but also deeply meaningful.

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Frankie Gomez - Sophomore