From Classroom to Community to Political Leadership, Meet Juan Gonzalez, 2022 GlobalMindED Scholar & 2024 College Graduate

Juan Gonzalez is a recent graduate of the University of Colorado Denver with a Political Science degree.?Rooted in a politically engaged Mexican-American family,?his passion for understanding and influencing government grew exponentially during the transformative events of 2020.?Driven by a commitment to justice and equality,?Juan is currently preparing to pursue a law degree and aspires to become a catalyst for social change on a worldwide stage. We are excited to hear about Juan's next steps as a leader for social change!

Personal/Professional Story:

I am Juan Gonzalez , a recent graduate from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Colorado Denver , where I majored in Political Science. My journey in political science was fueled by a lifelong engagement with politics, deeply rooted in my Mexican heritage. The transformative events of 2020, including the global pandemic and the BLACK LIVES MATTER movement, reinforced my desire to understand and influence the complex dynamics of government and power. I served as the Senior Advisor for the Student Government Association and the President of Alpha Psi Lambda National, Inc. Fraternity. My future aspirations include pursuing a career where I can advocate for justice and equality on a global scale, using my education and experiences to drive significant social change. I am currently planning to apply for law school.

What are some key moments that have shaped your life?

1. Family Discussions: Growing up in a politically engaged family, discussions about politics were a constant, shaping my early understanding of governance and social issues.

2. 2020 Events: The pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement were pivotal in reaffirming my desire to delve deeper into political science and activism.

3. University Experiences: My coursework and involvement in student government and Alpha Psi Lambda provided practical experience and a platform to advocate for change, further guiding my professional path.

4. GlobalMindED Involvement: The mentorship and opportunities provided by GlobalMindED expanded my network and equipped me with the skills necessary to pursue my goals effectively.

How has GlobalMindED impacted your growth as an emerging professional?

GlobalMindED has played a crucial role in my professional success by providing me with invaluable networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to resources that broadened my understanding of global issues. Through GlobalMindED programs, I gained insights into effective leadership and advocacy, which has been instrumental in my roles in student government and my fraternity.

Describe a turning point in your life.

A significant turning point in my life was the 2020 pandemic and the resurgence of the BLACK LIVES MATTER movement. Witnessing the profound social and political upheavals during this time solidified my commitment to political science and social justice. It sparked a deeper understanding of the importance of advocacy and inspired me to help others succeed by addressing systemic inequalities.

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