More than 50 students attended the seventh annual Latina Connection Conference at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) on March 7. When they entered the University Student Union ballroom, many weren’t sure what to expect. Some didn’t think they would want to stay for the entire day’s worth of events. But by the afternoon students unanimously agreed they were glad they had come.
The conference, organized by Dr. Rosa Moreno-Alcaraz, psychologist in Counseling and Psychological Services, and Rosa Carrillo, CSULB volunteer, was designed to help Latina students establish stronger connections with one another, as well as with faculty and staff. It also aims to help them gain a better understanding of the support services available to them at CSULB. In an evaluation given to students at the end of the event, everyone said they found the conference helpful and informative or very helpful and informative. When asked if they would recommend the conference to other Latinas, students said they would. “Yes. It motivates you to keep coming to school and pursuing your goals” was one comment. “Yes because it provides a sense of family and was very informative on campus resources” replied another student.
“The conference provided students with an opportunity to discuss with their peers challenges they are experiencing and it reinforced the fact that faculty and staff are here for them,” said Gloria Inzunza-Franco, project director for HSI—Mi Casa: Mi Universidad, one of the event’s sponsors. “Being a student at CSULB isn’t just about going to class and going home. Establishing connections is such a critical factor in retaining students. If students feel disconnected, if they face a challenge and don’t have anyone to discuss it with they are more likely to leave the university before they graduate.”
More than 50 students attended the Latina Connection Conference March 7.
The event was sponsored by Counseling and Psychological Services, University Outreach and School Relations, Lambda Theta Alpha, HSI-Mi Casa: Mi Universidad, Latino Student Union, Division of Student Services and Associated Students Incorporated.
“We have organized this conference for the past seven years to encourage persistence and retention of Latinas through connection, empowerment and mentorship and I think as always this was one of the best events we have had,” said Moreno-Alcaraz. “The students were engaged and excited to share their ideas and experiences with their peers, faculty and staff. We received some very valuable feedback from them that will help us in making this event even more successful next year.”