Ithzel Rubio, she/her

  Sophomore, Jones
  Ambitious, Passionate, Laid-back

  Major: Sociology
  Minors: Business; Politics, Law and Social Thought (PLST); & Study of Gender  and   Sexuality (SWGS) with a  Concentration in Critical Race Theory

In my first year at Rice, I desperately wanted to connect with other students who were experiencing the same struggles I was. I considered myself pretty well connected with the Student Success Initiative, so as I grew into my place as a sophomore, I felt that I wanted to serve a direct role in the nurturing of the FLI community— so, I applied! I love meeting new people!!! As someone more introverted —and as I mentioned earlier, eager to connect with the FLI community— coming to recognize people from FLI events has been the most rewarding part of my FLI ambassador experience. Community is so crucial for our experience here at Rice! I also love how close all of the FLI ambassadors have become over these past few months. :D

Being FLI at Rice is to be resilient and true to yourself in spite of the challenges and the differences between you and your peers. There is no way to “look FLI”, but to me, to be a First- Generation, Low-Income student is to be a resourceful student who is much more capable than meets the eye.

As a freshman, I struggled with imposter syndrome, especially because I came from a low- resourced high school. I was deeply afraid that I wouldn't be able to make it through an entire school year at Rice. It was daunting to be surrounded by high-achieving peers who seemed to have it all figured out, while I felt like I didn't belong. However, I knew that I had been accepted to Rice for a reason and that I possessed the skills and abilities to succeed. To overcome my imposter syndrome, I actively sought out resources and support systems on campus, the Student Success Initiative. I also reminded myself that failure is a natural part of the learning process, and that it was okay to make mistakes and learn from them. With persistence and effort, I was able to overcome my imposter syndrome and thrive. I am happy to say that I am still here. I’m still at Rice, and I’m still me.

Here at Rice, I’m involved with RicePRIDE, the Marching Owl Band, and at Jones College as an O-Week Coordinator. Additionally, I have helped spearhead diversity initiatives at Jones College on its diversity council and serve as a Peer Academic Advisor.

What's been your favorite class so far?
My favorite class is a class that one that I am currently in, called “Overseas Filipina Writers and Martial Law.” It’s my first English class at Rice, and I really love the deep discussions our small class gets into every week. I feel like my writing abilities and reading comprehension have improved so much over the course of the semester. I’m excited to see what we learn next!

What do you do when you aren't in class?
College life can be busy and stressful, especially at Rice, which is why it's essential to prioritize self-care and relaxation. For me, spending time with my friends at Jones College has been a highlight of my college experience so far. Whether we're playing games, watching movies, or just hanging out and chatting, it's a great way to decompress and destress. Another activity I
enjoy in my free time is watching South Park. While it may not be for everyone, I find the humor and satire of the show to be a great way to unwind and laugh. I also like to hit up the Rec in my free time. Staying active and healthy is essential for both physical and mental well-being, and the Rec provides plenty of opportunities to do so.

Any advice for other FLI students?
The only advice I can give FLI students is to stay true to themselves. As a FLI student, I can attest to the challenges of navigating higher education while balancing various responsibilities and expectations. It's easy to get lost in the expectations of others, whether it be from professors, peers, or society as a whole. However, it's crucial to remember that your journey is unique and that you should stay true to your values and aspirations. One piece of advice I would give is to find mentors and role models who share similar backgrounds and experiences. These individuals can provide valuable guidance and perspective on how to navigate the challenges that come with being a FLI student. Additionally, they can serve as a reminder that success comes in many forms and that there is no one right way to achieve it. Another important aspect of staying true to yourself is to prioritize self-care and well-being. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of college life, but it's essential to take time for yourself and prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental health. This may mean taking breaks, seeking out mental health resources, or engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Finally, remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There is no shame in seeking out support from others, whether it be from FLI ambassadors, professors, or friends. Building a network of support can help you navigate the challenges of college life and provide valuable resources and guidance along the
way.