Elizabeth Cruz

Hometown: Brentwood, CA

Education: Liberty High School

Send Elizabeth an e-mail by clicking here.

Abstract: Elizabeth Cruz is a first generation college student and daughter of Mexican immigrants; she was born and raised in East Contra Costa County with her parents and three sisters. Her life story vividly illustrates how her family background directly affected her educational experience.

Her parents agreed education would help their daughters have rewarding opportunities in America. She was faced with the challenges, of balancing the bicultural world of a Mexican household, and mainstream American culture. Her family was unfamiliar with the English language and American society. Elizabeth faced challenges such as troubles with developing an identity for herself and developing an attitude that would help her excel in her studies. Because of her parents’ unfamiliarity with American cultural norms, language barriers and lack of resources,  Elizabeth was forced to take full responsibility of her education at a very young age. Her responsibilities began with translating at her own parent-teacher conferences and later with paying for her own school and personal expenses.

In an effort to deal with such challenges she sought the support and mentorship of adults, whom are Kiko Ceja and Dr. Rose Borunda and found ways to nourish her development and serve as the bridge between school culture and that of her home. Her involvement in Bristow Middle School, Liberty High School and Brentwood community activities, such as, City of Brentwood’s Youth Commission and being the first Youth Representative to the Executive Board of the Brentwood Police Activities League, enabled her to maintain a positive self-image and develop skills.

Despite the drastic and often alienating cultural differences and caring, yet, unfocused familial support, Elizabeth was an exceptional student. Teachers and community members called her a “model student” and “inspiring young woman”. Her efforts were highly recognized, as she received many honorable awards and scholarships. Now, a student at Saint Mary’s College of California she has declared an English major and is considering a minor in either Sociology or Women’s Studies. Elizabeth has applied her skills successfully and has enjoyed bringing her family and community along with her in college experience.

Keywords: first generation, Mexican American, bicultural, mentor, involvement, major