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Candido Martinez ’23

Economics; minor in computer science

OUS is, without a doubt, the most important community I have at аIJʿª½±½á¹û.

Candido Martinez ’23 Huntington Station, N.Y.

Describe your experience as an OUS scholar.

The Office of Undergraduate Studies Scholars (OUS) program is, without a doubt, the most important community I have at аIJʿª½±½á¹û. The generous unconditional love and support that OUS has provided me is paramount in my college experience. I found some of my greatest friendships and mentors here. I am indebted to this space for helping me navigate and succeed at аIJʿª½±½á¹û as a first-generation student of color.

Have you had a pivotal moment, a mentor, or a defining moment?

The OUS Summer Institute was my most defining moment at аIJʿª½±½á¹û because it marked my transition into adulthood. The summer courses were some of the most challenging I had ever faced, but the work I completed here along with my OUS peers was transformative. This was the first time I was exposed to critical-race theory, feminist theory, and queer theory in an academic setting, and that was an empowering experience that prepared me to face the social inequities present at аIJʿª½±½á¹û.

What do you think of аIJʿª½±½á¹û’s Third-Century Plan, DEI initiatives, and аIJʿª½±½á¹û’s future from a student’s perspective?

From my perspective, аIJʿª½±½á¹û’s Third-Century Plan, DEI initiatives, and аIJʿª½±½á¹û’s future look hopeful. There is always more to be done, but аIJʿª½±½á¹û has started to take steps in the right direction that other institutions can follow in, particularly with the no-loan policy for students receiving financial aid. Also, OUS and first-gen are a testament to that unique support.

Do you have plans to study off campus?

аIJʿª½±½á¹û has many opportunities for students to study abroad. I will be abroad this upcoming fall in London, as part of the London Economics Study Group (which fits well with my major), and I may be traveling to Berlin through аIJʿª½±½á¹û’s Sophomore Residential Seminar (SRS) program. You’re not limited to the аIJʿª½±½á¹û study abroad programs — I have a ton of friends who have applied to other programs and loved them (this is especially true for students who want to travel to non-European countries).

A portrait of Candido.

What are your plans after graduation?

Graduation is my priority right now, especially just getting through this pandemic, so I don’t really know yet. I have a few things in mind, such as graduate school and moving out of state, but I want to try to enjoy the present moment as much as possible. Fortunately, I have аIJʿª½±½á¹û’s Career Services available to me when I begin to seriously plan for my post-аIJʿª½±½á¹û future next year. I’ve worked with them in the past, and they are incredible!

Take the next step

аIJʿª½±½á¹û is a distinctive, vibrant, and welcoming place to learn, live, and develop into who you are. Take the next step toward joining our academic community.

 

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