It’s Hispanic Heritage Month! From September 15 to October 15, people of all different Hispanic cultures come together to celebrate the beauty, richness and diversity of the Spanish-speaking population. UCF has many clubs and organizations directed toward specific countries and Latinx communities. Here’s a list of 11 registered student organizations (RSOs) that go above and beyond for the Hispanic community!
*Disclaimer: The words Latinx and Hispanic are used interchangeably throughout this article. Hispanic refers to those from Spanish-speaking countries (including Latin American countries and Spain). Latinx refers to Latin American countries only. In recent years, Latinx was formed as a gender-neutral word for all gender-identities. The Spanish language is made up of masculine and feminine nouns. Words ending in “O” are masculine and words ending in “A” are feminine. Putting an “X” at the end of Latin allows for those who don’t identify as female or male to be included.
- Latin American Student Organization
-
LASA is all about promoting the Latinx and Hispanic cultures throughout UCF and Central Florida. Even though you might be far away from your country, this can be your home away from home!
- Cuban-American Student Organization
-
Calling all Cubanos! Looking for a safe space to celebrate and learn about the Cuban culture? Check CASA’s Instagram for upcoming virtual general body meetings, socials and cultural events.
- Puerto Rican Student Association
-
A toda mi gente boricua: PRSA connects people from the island and those born on the mainland to bond over their love for Puerto Rico! Whether virtual or in-person, you’ll create new friendships and learn more about this tiny but mighty island.
- Mexican Student Association
-
Meet other Mexicans at UCF through MexSA! MexSA promotes cultural, social and educational awareness to those on campus. Providing leadership and personal growth experiences is what they do best!
- Venezuelan Student Association
-
Get connected with VENSA to meet other UCF Venezuelans and raise awareness for the social and economic situations the country is facing.
- Dominican Student Association
-
Are you a lover of platanos, bachata and using “vaina” in most sentences? Get connected with DSA by filling out this Google form: goo.gl/forms/HPY5H0MQ9rUfX0bF3.
- Peruvian Student Association
-
Join PeruSA to become part of a tight-knit group whose goals are to promote Peruvian culture, network and create close friendships. Interested? Visit their website here: https://sites.google.com/view/perusaucf/.
- We Are Here @ UCF
-
Established in 2020, We Are Here @ UCF is a brave place for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Temporary Protective Status (TPS), and Undocumented students. Follow them on Instagram @wearehere_ucf for scholarship information and ways to get connected.
- Latin Rhythm
-
Become a Latin dance machine with Latin Rhythm! Every dance level is welcome – they don’t discriminate. This semester, take Salsa and Bachata classes outside the Addition Financial Arena. Keep an eye on their social media for updates. (Everyone is socially distanced and masks are required.)
- Association of Latino Professionals For America
-
Ready to start networking? ALPFA UCF is the best place for young professional Latinxs to meet and build workplace connections. Visit alpfaucf.org for more information and ways to get involved.
- Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority, Inc. (Alpha Xi Chapter)
-
Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority, Inc. is the perfect place for empowered Latinas to create strong ties within the Central Florida community. From community service to bonding activities, there’s no way to get bored! Interested in joining? Visit http://ucfcussies.wixsite.com/home to learn more about this sisterhood.
Hispanic Heritage Month might be coming to a close, but the celebration of cultures is just getting started! All it takes is attending one meeting to get connected with other Latinx students. There are many other countries that need their own RSOs, but I have faith that the list will grow each semester! If you’re interested in starting an RSO, visit this link for further instructions.