“You only got into Harvard because you’re Hispanic.”
This is what someone, who I believe loves and respects me, said to me when I was accepted at Harvard to pursue my second master’s degree.
She is someone who would think that anyone saying that to anybody else would be demeaning and racist. But somehow it was OK to say it to me.
Could I have been accepted at Harvard because I have excelled in academics my entire life, both in Ecuador and in the US? Or because I was accomplished in my career as an executive? Or because I had been recognized for passionately working with the professional Latina community, volunteering my “free time” outside my executive-level job, extensive travel schedule and family, to build and equip professionals and students to step into their leadership? Maybe my bilingual children’s books had something to do with it…Perhaps my published award-winning research… Or being an international speaker… And of top of all of those things, yes, I am Latina.
I was shocked when she said this to me and despite still feeling disappointed, I don’t let her opinion, or anyone else’s, take away from my personal pride and belief in myself.
I know how hard I worked for 20 years to be ready for that acceptance email. The cherry on top is knowing how many loved ones, friends, colleagues and acquaintances genuinely believed in me, supported me throughout, and share my pride.
To all Hispanic Ivy League and university students :
YOU DESERVE TO BE THERE!
You overcame obstacles that some can’t even imagine going through.
You are putting all of your and your family’s hopes and dreams into this goal and setting the bar at its highest.
You are bringing your hard work and perseverance, “mucho ñeque”, to take on an enormous challenge.
You are bringing your diverse backgrounds and stories that make the fabric of our Latinidad and of our beautiful country so rich and colorful.
I’m proud and grateful for my degree at Harvard.
I’m proud and grateful to be an Ecuadorian immigrant with a beautiful family and life in the US.
I’m proud and grateful to be an American.
And I’m specially proud and grateful for each and every one of you who believe in yourselves and rise to challenge.
Let’s end Hispanic Heritage Month with our hopes high on the amazing college students who are changing the narrative and moving the Latinx representation needle.
Abrazos,
P.S.: Let’s connect! Find me on LinkedIn here.