Name: Erin Menag Padilla Toro
Age: 21
Hometown: Cabo Rojo
Major: Chemistry
Relationship Status: Taken
The greek world on campus is known for their deeds, activities, outstanding initiations and galas, and, of course, the cuties! This week, Her CAAMpus had the pleasure of interviewing Nu Sigma Beta (NƩB) Gamma Chapter Vice-Chancellor, Erin Menag.
Erin was diagnosed with Large Vessels Lymphoma when he was in high school. He started his treatment on January 5, 2012 and was over by May 4 of the same year. Though this interview, he shared how he never let cancer get in the way of enjoying his life and staying positive. He is a true warrior and leader who, no matter what, will always find a way to see the good side of the situation.
HC: What motivated you join your fraternity?
I’m a greek legacy, third generation from my family. I really like it, I used to see everything they do and knew how the atmosphere was. When I graduated high school, I made the decision to pledge.
HC: How being in a fraternity made a positive impact in your life?
I’d say it was to learn how to understand and treat people better. When you’re in a fraternity, it’s a process in which one has to do certain things that maybe one’s not used to but, when you confront life at a certain point, you already had the experience and know how to manage it.
HC: Best frat experience?
The opportunity to go around Puerto Rico and meet people from different places. It doesn’t matter where I am, there’s always going to be someone (from my fraternity).
HC: What’s your life goal?
My life goal is to graduate from El Colegio, and study medicine to become a plastic surgeon.
HC: Biggest inspiration? Why?
I’d say it was when I had cancer; it was like an ending but a new beginning at the same time because when it was all over (the treatment process) I had to begin again, from scratch. Ever since I confronted the illness, I feel like I can handle any other situation that comes my way; it helped me grow more as a person.
HC: Why Chemistry?
I study chemistry because I realized it’s a branch from science that is everywhere. Basically everything can be explained through chemistry, from a wheel’s movement to the touch of a person.
HC: What are your hobbies?
Exercising and playing sports (especially tennis and swimming).
HC: What’s something you can’t live without?
Food, I could eat every second.
HC: What’s your favorite place?
My favorite place is the beach because you can do anything there; you can either enjoy plenty of activities or just disconnect from the world.