Adilene Martinez-Carmona is a graduating first-generation James Madison College student with a minor in Chicano/Latino Studies, class of 2026. Over the past two years, she worked as a lead communications intern writer, publishing dozens of stories that shaped the campus experience.
As a first-generation student and the daughter of immigrants, I recognize that my degree is more than just about me. Graduating from a higher education institution is an accomplishment that reflects the hard work and dedication of my parents and community, who have motivated me to reach this milestone. I have sought to make my parents proud and to represent the Latinx community in every capacity, so that I can empower students in the same position to embrace their identity, encourage them to pursue their passions and lift up those behind me. Mentorship is a form of encouragement, and I have received my fair share while at MSU.
It feels surreal that I am now graduating with my bachelor’s degree in social relations and policy and a minor in Chicano/Latino Studies. I remember arriving on MSU’s campus for the College Assistance Migrant Program’s, or CAMP, orientation four years ago.
In my first year, I was overwhelmed and afraid of how I would navigate being at a Big Ten university and realize my dreams of completing my degree. However, CAMP was like a second family. Despite initially being intimidated by the large campus, I attribute my growth and accomplishments to the love and support I have received from the program.
Looking back, I can truly say that I have grown into myself and accomplished things through my leadership in student organizations and programs. I had the wonderful opportunity to be involved in Latino Leaders in Policy, the Social Science Scholars Program and Culturas de las Razas Unidas, or CRU. My involvement with CRU also extends to co-chairing the 2026 Dia de la Mujer conference, which drew more than 400 attendees from across the Midwest.
Outside the classroom, I served as Holden Hall’s resident assistant, or RA, was a CAMP ambassador and worked as a communications intern for the Office for Inclusive Excellence and Impact, or IEI, and University Communications and Marketing, or UCAM. As an RA, I made it a goal to connect with students and promote community development through interactive activities and floor events focused on making an inclusive and inviting space for first-year students.
As a CAMP ambassador, I mentored and advocated for the needs of first-generation and migrant students in the program. I served as a resource for students and helped them navigate unfamiliar processes like applying for internships, scholarships and financial aid. This role was an especially fulfilling experience because I was able to provide support services and engage with students who look like me and share similar experiences.
An especially rewarding experience has been the two years I have spent working as a communications intern with IEI and UCAM. I have enjoyed learning about the different programs, people and organizations that make up the MSU community and amplify those experiences on MSU Today. These experiences have allowed me to connect, develop a sense of community and belonging across campus, and lean into roles that prioritize community building.
Other memorable moments came through experiential learning experiences coordinated by the Farmworker Student Services, or FSS, office’s International Engagement in Mexico program in Chiapas, Mexico and MSU’s forestry department study abroad program in Merida, Mexico. The weeklong trip to Chiapas taught me about the rich history rooted in culture and resistance. While in Chiapas, I volunteered at the Children’s Community Center Tierra Roja, where I tutored students in English.
In Merida, I learned about the connection between forestry conservation practices and community efforts to resolve ecological issues through traditional forms of knowledge. I especially enjoyed learning about mangrove restoration efforts in Chelem and Celestun. These study abroad experiences expanded my worldview and helped me understand how community-first initiatives preserve local autonomy.
While at MSU, I have learned what it means to be a leader, a mentor and a student. All of these roles emphasize the importance of listening and a continued effort to engage with and build community. As I close this chapter, I am reminded of how proud I am to be an MSU Spartan and of how much I have learned from different roles, programs and offices on campus.
I especially appreciate all the opportunities I have been able to take part in because of the mentorship and guidance from the FSS office and CAMP. Their support extends beyond traditional classroom settings and has pushed me to deepen my connection with my community. Through their support, I have learned the importance of community in keeping the door open for the next generation students.
