El Puente de Encuentros Cohort 2017-2018
Angelica Chavez
My name is Angelica Chavez, I was born and raised here in Albuquerque, New Mexico and absolutely love calling Albuquerque my home. I am a sophomore here at UNM where I am studying Psychology and minoring in Family Studies. As a first-generation college student, I believe it is important to continuously mentor our youth and provide opportunities within our communities for individuals and families to reach their fullest potential. I am excited to be a part of a program that finds value in diversity and encourages students to do the same. Thank you!
Leslie Salinas
My name is Leslie Salinas. I'm currently a junior studying psychology at UNM. I was born in Chicago but have been residing in Albuquerque since I was about 9. I'm Mexican American and also a vegetarian... shocking? In my spare time I really enjoy binge watching Netflix, practicing yoga and meditating.

Sonia Ramirez
Hello, I am Sonia Ramirez and was born in Salinas, California but have lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico since 2002. My mother is originally from Delicias, Chihuahua. Growing up she encouraged my older sister, younger brother and I to always follow our dreams. To us that meant pursuing an education. I am currently double majoring in Psychology and Family & Child Studies with a concentration in Human Development and Family Relations. My ultimate goal is to become a Clinical Psychologist to help the youth in our community. I am constantly involved at UNM and my community. A few of the things I do is, work at El Centro de la Raza as a Student Success Leader, mentor students, volunteer at AGORA and working towards developing a research proposal. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the first cohort of El Puente de Encuentros and am very hopeful to our upcoming meetings.
Astrid L. Escobar
Brianda Jaquez
My name is Brianda Jaquez, I am a 24 year old student in the Master’s in counseling program at UNM. This is my final year in the program and I hoping to graduate in May, 2018. I was born in Anahuac Chihuahua Mexico and came to the United States when I was eight years old. I come from a small low income family in which I am the first to go to college. I’ve always wanted a career that could challenge my potential and in which I could help others in an individual, family, and community level, which is why I decided to pursue a career in counseling. Through counseling, I am hoping to help individuals and families deal with mental health issues and struggles of daily life. As a bicultural and bilingual counselor, I am hoping that I will be able to help the Hispanic community by providing services that meet their cultural and linguistic needs. I believe it is important for counselors and others in the helping professions to be culturally sensitive and aware of discrimination, racism, and the struggles that are faced by the Hispanic clients to be able to better assist them.
Adriana Martinez-Guzman
I AM FROM...
Ana Sanchez-Riddle