For our first ever "Senior Wisdom Profile Series" we kick it off with Social Work superstar Yuri Hernandez who drops some serious wisdom about diversity and learning to say no.
Name: Yuri Hernández Hometown: Coos Bay, OR Major: Social Work, minor in Spanish & Psychology
What is your UP claim to fame?
“That one girl that always is talking about diversity issues.”
When I was a freshman….
I signed up to almost every club at the activities fair and I attended almost every meeting. I learned which clubs had the best food.
Best piece of advice you received from someone during your time here?
It wasn’t advice, really, more of a statement. Dr. (Valerie) Francisco, sociology professor, wrote to me telling me, “Your adept analysis and critique of systems of oppression is so important. Your ability to point out exactly the roots of oppression is what the world needs today!” Seems out of context, but that was the first time I felt like a real academic and really felt like what I had to say was important. For that moment, I truly felt like I belonged in academia among everyone despite my background and status.
What are three pieces of wisdom you learned during your time at UPortland that you want to impart to those coming next?
- If you are a student of color, find your hub of professors of color (there are not many at UP) that you can relate to and that will support you. Start looking now and establish those relationships.
- Do not live with six girls in a house. You might all be besties now, but it’s never a good idea. You are doing too much, trust me.
- Learn how to say no. Everything sounds like a great opportunity but there always more opportunities. So manage your time well and don’t spread yourself too thin, remember to self-care!
Cove for sure - wraps and deli sandwiches are da bomb.
Best advice for experiencing Portland?
Portland, has great happy hours, 99-cent margaritas exist!
The infamous… what’s next?
I was hired by Causa Oregon as a community organizer! Official title: Legal Program Organizer. I was also accepted into graduate school and I am deferring my acceptance to the University of Michigan and plan to attend the following year to get my MSW.
Any regrets?
I wouldn’t call it a regret, but if I could go back to every time I heard a racist slur, comment, joke, etc. I would act on it instead of letting it slide sometimes. I’ve learned a lot being here at UP. And through amazing faculty I have the tools to combat injustices and I feel empowered to speak up. I wish I had the strength before.
