Ana Dragomir, She/Her

 Sophomore, McMurtry
 Silly, Authentic, Uplifting

 Major: Psychology, Pre-Health

Why did you want to become a FLI Ambassador?  As a first-generation and low-income student, I didn’t realize how challenging it would be to juggle the many aspects of college, and I encountered a lot of hardship during my freshman year. I realized that I had additional stressors, including finances and overwhelming imposter syndrome, that made my experience different from a lot of my classmates. As a FLI ambassador, I wanted to use my struggles and first-hand experiences to offer support and resources to other FLI students going through similar difficulties.

What does FGLI mean to you? My identity as a FGLI student has recently become my badge of honor. With the support of my friends and family, I know I have worked hard to earn my place at Rice. Coming from a FGLI background, I know that I have had experiences that have given me a distinct perspective on life and have instilled a deep sense of gratitude in me. 

What is one challenge that you've experienced as a FGLI student and how did you overcome it? I’ve been navigating the financial burdens of paying for procedures, appointments and medications as I’ve been battling a chronic health condition. This led me to question my academic capabilities since I felt like I was not operating at my optimum. Through seeking help from mentors, close friends, and practitioners, I’ve been able to manage both the physical and mental toll of my health issues. A big hurdle I overcame was the thought that I had to figure everything out on my own - I realized I could not, nor did I need to! 

What are you involved in outside of being a FLI Ambassador? When I’m not going for walks or spending time in nature, I’m serving as a Rice Health Advisor, McMurtry Associates/Traditions/Latine committee member, working in my college’s mailroom or trying out a new hobby like ping pong or needle-felting. 

What's been your favorite class so far? PSYC202 Social Psychology

A piece of advice for FGLI students: My simplest (yet sometimes the hardest to believe) piece of advice for fellow FGLI students is: You are not alone & you belong here. Your acceptance was not a fluke. It might take some time, some stumbling, and some hardship, but you will find your way. Your community is right here, and we’re all so excited to walk this journey together.