By Gloria Magallanes 

Assistant Opinion Editor 

Gaby Sanchez is currently a senior who has studied at CSUSM for the past five years. She is graduating this semester with a degree in Global Studies and History.

She is involved on campus, most notably at the Office of Global Education. Sanchez is passionate about international affairs and would like to teach abroad after she finishes the credential program at CSUSM. She hopes to someday “inspire students to continue their education in whatever they want.”

She decided to choose both of her majors when she was at an exciting time in her life. Sanchez studied abroad in Korea for a year in 2012. The experience was life changing for her.

“While I was studying abroad, I realized that I wanted to learn more about international relations,” Sanchez said.

When Sanchez returned, she got involved with international students, especially those who came from Korea. She loves to meet new students that come from different countries and help them settle into their new life in America by befriending them. So far she has loved her experience at CSUSM. She is grateful for the “opportunity to meet many wonderful people, including international students.”

When it comes to advice for other students, those still in the battle for a degree, she has one piece of advice.

“Go out and get out of your comfort zone. Meet new people and discover new places,” Sanchez said.

After all, it’s good to have a balance in our lives as students and take a breather every once in a while. What would the college experience be like without a little fun and adventure?

As a Latina, Sanchez is well aware of the difficulties and the pressure placed upon Latino and Latina students to succeed or even the expectation to fail. However, she doesn’t let this stop her and she will continue to climb the educational ladder until she reaches her goals. She has one message for Latino students who are in the same fight.

“Don’t give up, no matter who tells you that you can’t,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez is overall a fun, loving and caring individual with a bright future. As my friend and fellow graduate, I am so proud of her accomplishments. I know there are better things in store for her.

Congratulations, Graduate! Si se pudo!