White Privilege and Racial Identity

          As part of a minority, Mexican, I can unquestionably agree that a “white privilege” exists.  It is part of my college experience here at Marquette.  As I walk throughout the campus, I get the feeling that I am the only Mexican, even though this isn’t true.  It is definitely nice to be in an environment where you fit in.  Therefore, I believe that this “white privilege” and sense of racial identity has kept me from truly enjoying my college experience.  Although everyone is extremely friendly and I get along with others, it is nice to have friends with similar racial identities.  I believe that if I felt as though I fit in more, I would be involved in all sorts of activities at Marquette.
          I also experience great difference in racial identities on a daily basis.  Even though I am a citizen here in the United States, I have many family members and friends who are not.  It is shocking to see how this truly affects them in everything they do.  For example, every time they are out driving on the streets they have to be careful to avoid the police at all times.  Therefore, they feel scared every time they are out on the streets.  This is something I have never felt, and it is something that I think “whites” don’t ever feel or think about.  Another problem is finding a job.  It is extremely hard for someone without documents to get hired in a good work place.  In conclusion, I know that “white privilege” exists.  However, I feel as though Americans take for granted all the great opportunities they are granted to succeed in life.

Service Learning Reflection

          For my service learning, I am attending Summit.  The girls Summit program consists of an hour of tutoring and an hour of recreational activities.  Because they are in need of much volunteers, I invited my mother.  She started volunteering there too.  Although I have only attended my site twice, I already know that I will greatly enjoy volunteering there.  When I first arrived, I noticed that most of the girls in the program were Hispanic.  I was glad to be there because I myself am Mexican.  I could therefore relate to my student.  I was appointed to assist a third grader.  Although she is a third grader, she doesn’t speak much English.  This is due to the fact that she attends a bilingual school.  As a result, I have been focusing on Reading with her.  While helping, I get a certain feeling of gladness.  I enjoy hearing Donaji laugh and simply talking with her.  I know that I will impact her in some way.  I am looking forward to the rest of my time there and the fun field trips.