As a first-generation college student from El Paso, Texas, Leonardo Moraveg wasn’t sure he’d fit in at Brown. But when he visited campus for A Day on College Hill (aka ADOCH), he immediately felt at ease. First, he met other students from El Paso; then he learned about the Undocumented, First-Generation College and Low-Income (U-FLi) Student Center. Brown was a place where he knew he could belong.
“My border hometown of El Paso has a special place in my heart,” Leonardo says. “To me, it reflects the potential that border cities have, the positive benefits of immigration and the pride of being part of the Latino culture. While I do miss home and my family, it's comforting to know that I can find like-minded people — and people with different views — in an environment that fosters growth.”
The summer before coming to Brown, Leonardo, the son of immigrants, worked with Texas state senator Jose Rodriguez as a legislative intern. He witnessed the apprehension and separation of families seeking asylum, and learned firsthand how communication and research can influence policy.