Name: Maria Diaz

Year in School: Junior

Major: Psychology 

 

About You:

Where are you from?

I am from Aurora, Illinois.

What do you like to do?

Outside of school, I've been exploring other passions, getting into reading, painting, cooking (some have been more successful than others). Overall, I enjoy trying new things with my friends and spending time with my family. 

 

My Community Service & Action Experience:

How are you involved in Community Service & Action?

I am a L4C Leader currently at Centro Romero. 

Why do you engage in the Community?

I engage in the community becuase as my education grows in Loyola and the more I engage with the city, while there is much beauty to be seen, the struggles become more pronounced. In both living situations and education. Struggles that can be improved with the time and dedication of others. I am currently working with school children and my team and I are able to help them with their schoolwork and by doing so we are helping take the stress off not only the children, but their parents as well. We as Loyola students should take the opportunity of living in a great city to help those that we are able and improve the life of others. 

How do you envision living out the call to "Build the Greater Good" after you graduate?

As a whole I am going to apply to medical school to help others regarding their physical and mental health placing attention to patient care, but I believe the greater good can be done in small ways too. Taking some time to listen to friends, and others who are having a rough day, helping others in any way I can when possible, and dedicating time to build community when working on a team. 

 

Being a Rambler:

How are you involved at Loyola outside of CSA?

I am the president of Pre-Med life magazine, a part of Mujeres en Medicina, I am conducting research for the Activity Matters Lab and an RA in Francis Hall. 

What tips do youhave for building and maintaining community in college?

I would say to be the person to starts the conversation, many people are shy and reserved and so it may be up to you to take the first step, try to find a common interest, this will allow you to connect with the other person and from that connect to other areas. Dedicating time and atention to other people and other activities will allow a good community to be formed. 

What advice would you give to an imcoming Loyola student?

I would say to not put too much pressure on yourself, either on academics, extracurricuars, and even relationships. Putting too much pressure can make the inevitable failures seem catastrophic and the victories miniscule, so relieve that pressure to appreciate the small things and celebrate the wins!