Psychological and brain science graduate Luis Garcia Abundis chose The Catholic University of America because of the opportunities to expand his horizons.
"I wanted to be in a city that was very diverse," said Garcia Abundis, noting that Hispanics make up the second largest student population on campus. "Embracing a new environment...was really important to me, and i definitely have seen so much growth in myself since choosing Catholic."
He found a home among other driven Latino student leaders and pursued his passion for making a difference for his community in our nation's capital, especially in addressing healthcare disparities. This summer, he is interning at one of the largest Latino advocacy groups in the country, CASA. He will then start the Congressional Internship Program (CIP) with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), where he is one of 33 young Latino leaders chosen from across the United States.
A first-generation college student, he said the Center for Cultural Engagement's Take Flight program anchored him within the wider community and provided a pathway for success that he's paid forward.
"It's definitely a big, big milestone," said Garcia Abundis. "I have three mentees this year, and I've been able to bond with them and give them a lot of resources as much as I possibly can as a first-gen college student."
Among the most transformative mentorship experiences he himself received at the University was working as a research assistant for renowned clinical psychologist David Jobes, who developed the revolutionary CAMS-care therapuetic framework for suicide prevention.
"I really love the psychology department," said Garcia Abundis. "Dr. Jobes has opened so many doors for me... I've been able to be out of my comfort zone and grown this deeper passion within research, and meet other incredible doctoral students and masters student" who have offered their guidance and mentorship.
Garcia Abundis said the small size for students to build bonds with their professors to help them develop original research. In July, Garcia Abundis will present on healthcare disparities impacting Latinos with fellow researchers at the annual Stress, Trauma, Anxiety, and Resilience (STAR) Society conference in Charlotte, NC.
He said what's made the biggest difference for him is the community atmosphere that continues with the strong friendships forged on a faith-filled campus.
"I am a cradle Catholic... my faith is very important to me. And after college, I will continue to practice my faith," said Garcia Abundis, who explained that the sense of unity comes from the diversity of experiences represented on campus.
"Everyone brings so much to the table," said Garcia Abundis. "I've met so many students...that are passionate about what they believe and what they want out of their experience here."
