By Leslie, Social Media Intern
My story is simple, and it started when my parents immigrated from Mexico to the US in 1996. They came to the land of opportunities with zero expectations but a whole lot of hunger. I am the oldest of 4 kids and the importance of an education was always emphasized by my mom. She was pursing an accounting degree in Mexico but had to drop it all to migrate to the US. Although she does not hold an official degree, my mom has always been a scholar and pushed me to be one too. Despite her unusual 4am-1pm work schedule, my mom somehow always found the time to read with me, help me with my math homework, and to take me to a variety professional development and volunteering events.
My parents have supported me in all aspects of my life; yet I was not prepared enough when I stepped on my PWI (Predominantly White Institution) campus. Besides experiencing culture shock, I also struggled academically and being halfway across the country. I missed my sweet Texas home so much. I wanted to call it quits so many times, but what kept me going was my dad’s words before he dropped me off at orientation to go back home: “Mientras todos duermen, tu trabajo duro”, which means “while everyone rests, you work harder” in English.
At times, I resisted calling my family for help because I was embarrassed that they would think I was not strong enough. No problems were fixed– I still had to figure out difficult assignments. It was then when I truly understood the meaning of being a first-generation college student. Many times, we don’t have the knowledge, resources, or adequate support systems to properly navigate college, but we do have the hustle that keeps us going.
Fast forward a couple years, I am now working for Fidelity Investments as a Social Media intern and I am an Aspire Fellow as well. At the beginning, I had worries that my summer here would be a reminder of my freshman year. It made me question if Fidelity would be the appropriate workplace for me personally. But, with only a few weeks left in my internship, I can vouch for the welcoming and encouraging community here. This opportunity has exposed me to an amazing network. I have a manager that also acts as a mentor and doesn’t only give me social media advice, but future career and life advice as well. I have an entire team that is always excited to hear from me during our check-ins and team meetings. A mentor from my Aspire fellowship is helping me achieve and learn more about financial literacy. In addition, associates who I have networked with are always super eager to put down time on their busy schedule to meet with me.
I feel an immense amount of support here, and this is exactly the type of environment I needed as a freshman. Fidelity inspires its associates to bring their authentic selves to work every day and it’s that culture that makes me look forward towards a future here.
Learn more about an internship at Fidelity by clicking here.
