Story adapted from an article originally shared through MSUToday.
First-generation student Sofia Mireles-Gonzalez, who majored in journalism and minored in Chicano/Latino studies, graduated in spring 2025 and reflected on her MSU experience before she walked the stage.
Mireles-Gonzalez is originally from the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, where she was raised in a family-oriented environment. While growing up in that setting, she knew moving away to college would be difficult.
“It was a sacrifice, but one that I made with the hopes of opening new doors not just for myself, but also for my family, my community and future generations,” Mirelez-Gonzales said.
There were times when she questioned whether she truly belonged, but through organizations and individuals at MSU, she had the opportunity to discover a version of herself she never expected to become.
Mireles-Gonzalez began her journey at MSU as part of Ignite the Future, which was followed by MAGIC, and both summer bridge programs connected her with essential on-campus resources.
“As I settled into campus life, I became involved with Latino organizations and took part in initiatives that truly shaped my success and helped me find my purpose at MSU,” Mireles-Gonzales said.
She served on the planning committee for the César Chávez and Dolores Huerta Commemorative Celebration, worked for WKAR’s “¿Qué Onda Michigan?” podcast, became a mentor through the Latino Mentorship Program, led the 30th Annual Día de la Mujer Conference as the chair, became a sister of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority Inc., and traveled abroad.
“As a College Assistant Migrant Program scholar, I proudly carried with me the resilience of my community throughout my time here, and I leave MSU with a heart full of gratitude for all the lessons learned,” Mireles-Gonzales said.
Sofia Mireles-Gonzalez’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and representation, and she hopes her story inspires others to take risks, embrace their identities, and believe they belong—especially first-generation students working toward a brighter future for themselves and their communities.