Name: Richell De Jesus
Year: Sophomore
Hometown: Miramar, FL
Major: Criminology
Her Campus (HC): What was it that made you want to be a part of FSU?
Richell De Jesus (RD): I first wanted to come to FSU because of their outstanding Criminology program. My decision was final when I was accepted to CARE through the Summer Bridge Program.
HC: Tell me how you first got involved with the Hispanic/Latino Student Union?
RD: I first became involved with HLSU by applying to the Programming Board. I was able to learn a great deal about how agencies work and how SGA is run. While on the programming board, I was also able to brainstorm and execute great events that benefited the Hispanic/Latino student community.
HC: What’s your current position at the HSLU? How long have you been in this position? Can you give me a brief overview of what it is you do?
RD: I currently serve as the Director for the Hispanic Latino Student Union. I have been Director since the end of 2017 spring semester. I am the point person for HLSU and serve as a liaison between the Executive and Legislature Branch of SGA. I conduct our executive board meeting and work with the Assistant Director to assure that all of our Affiliates are in working together to assure that we are serving the Hispanic/Latino community.
Courtesy: Richell De Jesus
HC: What’s it like being the youngest Director that the HLSU has ever had?
RD: I feel like I am an example for young people. Age is irrelevant when it comes down to leadership. Being Director, for me, is more than just a position. I know I am prepared to serve my community and work to better HLSU as Director and being young doesn’t change that.
HC: What are your future plans for the HLSU? Do you have any upcoming projects?
RD: One of my goals in this position is to bring more awareness of the issues facing our communities. I want HLSU to serve as a resource for students to stay connected to their roots. I want HLSU to take a more active role in issues such as immigration and education. I want to raise the presence of the Hispanic Latino Student Union on this campus and the Tallahassee community. Our most significant project will be Hispanic Heritage Month which starts Sept. 15. We will have different events such as a comedy night, movies, and sport events.
HC: It’s the beginning of fall semester. Do you have any advice to incoming freshman? Particularly those of Hispanic/Latino background?
RD: I would advise all freshman to get connected to HLSU. We are here to help and serve them. Also, I encourage everyone to find their home here at FSU. This is a big campus and it’s better to have a group of people that you can call home.
HC: Finally, how can students join the HLSU?
RD: A student can join HLSU by requesting to be member through Nole Central.