Name: Alex Herrera
Year: First Year Grad Student
Major: Journalism
Hometown: San Juan, Puerto Rico (Alex attended undergraduate school at the University of Puerto Rico)
What Has Been the Biggest Transition from Undergrad to Grad School? Well, first it’s much colder here than in Puerto Rico! However, the biggest transition has been the isolation that comes with graduate school. It’s definitely harder to meet people compared to being an undergraduate, because the classes are much smaller. I also live by myself off campus, so that makes it harder as well. However, I love Boston. Everyone here is so friendly and there is so much culture. I’ve been to the MFA about ten times so far, since we get in for free and there’s so much there to look at! Also, I really enjoyed the Jazz Festival at the beginning of the year and the NU Film Enthusiasts events.
Three Words to Describe You? Outspoken, inquisitive, and impatient
Favorite Hobby? Playing Basketball
Favorite Movie? Before Sunrise/Before Sunset & The Godfather/The Godfather Part II
Favorite Band? The Beatles
Favorite Place in Boston? Actually, I really like to go to the Barnes and Noble at the Pru and in Kenmore. I love to read but back home our Borders closed so it was really hard to find a bookstore. My other favorite place is the TD Garden. I just saw my first Celtics game there. I am a huge fan of them.
Dating Dealbreaker? Smoking
What Do You Look for in Someone? First, and most importantly, honesty and sincerity. Even if I don’t agree with someone’s opinions or have a lot in common with someone, if they come off as real, I have a big respect for them. Also, I look for a good sense of humor. Looks are not as important, but a level of attraction needs to be there. I look more for a pretty face than any other aesthetic feature.
What Do You Want to Do After Graduation? I have actually recently considered teaching. Since I am fascinated with all types of culture, I think I would like to teach sociology. However, any career where I can talk to people or write for a living is a good career path for me.
Advice for NU students? Develop close relationships with your professors. Also, become friendly with your peers. My graduate journalism class only has fifteen students. We all work together since we are such a small group. It is so helpful.