Scholars of Color- Alejandro Arellano
What is Scholars of Color?
It is a platform in which scholars of color are purposefully celebrated. It’s a space where scholars of color are showcased front and center. It is a digital space where we feel empowered and resilient. Let us get to know each other. Let us cheer each other on AND show the world what we have to offer.
Let us now welcome Alejandro Arellano to the Scholars of Color space!
Name: Alejandro Arellano
Gender Pronouns: He, Him, His
What do you currently do for work and/or school?: I am currently working at Palomar College as an Assessment and School Relations Specialist. My current work duties include advising, mentoring, outreach, creating education plans for students, and assessing transcripts for placement. I am also part of my college's Student Equity Council and I am assisting in institutionalizing equity to close the equity gaps among disproportionately impacted students. I recently completed my masters in Postsecondary Educational Leadership and Student Affairs at SDSU.
Without positions or titles, how would you describe yourself?: I would describe myself as someone who has a lot of drive. In no way do I think of myself as gifted or talented, I see myself as driven and willing to work hard. Being the youngest of five children and the first in my family to pursue a graduate degree and now working to get into a doctoral program, I see myself as the family caretaker. I did not have a father figure in my life, so I took it upon myself to be my own role model. This is also why I enjoy working with Latinx youth who are living a similar struggle as I am. People who know me well would also say that I am very ambitious and because of this, I can be very hard on myself when something does not go the way that I planned. This is why I decided to get closer to my spiritual side and embark on meditation, self affirmation, and self love.
What are you passionate about?: My current passions include both mental and physical health, daily mental and physical exercise, mentorship, and cultural wealth.
Why is the representation of scholars of color important to you?: To be honest, I did not always see myself as a scholar of color because of my light skin. I was born here in the United States, however both of my parents are from Jalisco, Mexico. My parents raised me with a lot of Mexican culture. From the music that I listen to and the food that I eat, everything reminds me of my cultural roots. It wasn't until my sophomore year as an undergraduate that I connected more with my culture. I joined ballet folklorico, M.E.CH.A, and the Latino roundtable; which I am a proud founder of. Now as I venture in a graduate program that is heavily concentrated on social justice, critical race theory, and student development theory; I continue to learn about the importance of retaining one's cultural roots. I am proud to say I am a scholar of color and that I represent many scholars who have overcome various obstacles to get to where they are today.
If people are interested in getting connected to you, how can they?: You can follow me on LinkedIn: Alejandro Arellano Tweeter: @athinker4 IG: a.thinker
Anything else you would like us to know?: I was raised by a single mom, who instilled in me the importance to remain humble, be loving, and caring towards others. I am honored to be part of this space where I can share my story with you all. Thank you for having me.
Thank you Alejandro for sharing space with us!
Stay tuned everyone for more Scholars of Color profiles. Interested in being showcased yourself? Please email the Scholars of Color team at scholarsofcolor@reclaimingyourhappiness.com and we will get back to you shortly.
