Meet Latinitas Austin’s Spring 2018 Communications and Editorial intern, Carolina Avila. She is a junior at St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas, where she is completing a international business degree with a minor in French. Carolina is from New Orleans, Louisiana, and speaks three languages: English, Spanish and French. One day, she hopes to become a lawyer and advocate for people who don’t have a voice in society.
Why did you choose your major?
I chose my major because I love traveling and interacting with different types of people. It has become my passion. International Business allows me to do just that, but also lets me challenge myself within the business world. I get to learn more about how the world works logistically but also get to see culture and language.
What made you want to join Latinitas?
I wanted to be part of an organization that empowers young Latina girls and helps them achieve their greatest dreams and desires. I believe that by showing these girls that their dreams are possible, it is opening them to a world of new unexpected possibilities. That’s beautiful and it contributes to their confidence of being the best they can be.
What extracurricular activities do you participate in?
I am currently the Marketing Co-Director for a club called America I Will. I am also a tour guide at my university.
Who is one of your role models and why?
One of my role models is Selena Quintanilla. Although she wasn’t exactly a part of my field, her drive has continued to inspire me. At first, no one really believed in her capabilities as a Mexican-American artist and business owner, but that didn’t stop her. She worked extremely hard to prove herself and others that you can achieve anything you put your mind to. Her spirit and passion inspires me to pursue my endeavors.
What is your idea of a dream job and how will your involvement with Latinitas get you there?
My dream job would be to become a Senator for the United States Congress. I want to become a senator because I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and recognized, regardless of any differences. I believe that Latinitas can help me get there because I get to learn more about the Latino community and what type of representation we need.
What is one of your favorite hobbies and how’d you get started with it?
One of my favorite hobbies is to read. Since I was in middle school, I’ve read more than 20 books a year. It first started out as mandatory homework but then it became something that I looked forward to every night. I love to read because it opens my mind in different ways.
What is one of your guilty pleasures?
One of my guilty pleasures is re-watching a lot of Disney movies, like High School Musical and Camp Rock. I grew up with these movies and when I re-watch them, I get to be nostalgic and be a kid again.
What are the best and worst uses of the internet?
Some of the best things about the internet is that you get to connect with people from all over the world. You’re able to make friends from different countries and get to know about their culture. You are also constantly learning. You can Google anything and have your answer within seconds. It’s amazing that we have knowledge at our fingertips.
Some of the worst uses of the internet is when it’s being used to bully. Cyberbullying has, sadly, become very prominent in our society. People of all ages go after each other and it can cause mental and emotional harm. If used right, the internet can be wonderful.
