About Me

I am a first generation PhD whose parents migrated from Guatemala in pursuit of a better life. My mother is my biggest inspiration and it is her experiences in the U.S. as both an immigrant and a Latina woman that have been formative in my life. Learning about her experiences led me down the road of pursuing  research interests that focus on women (specifically non-White women), immigrants, and non-White voters, political candidates, and politicians. 

I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA where I also completed my undergraduate and graduate school training. I received my bachelor's degree from California State University, Fullerton and my master's and Ph.D. in American Politics and Public Policy from Claremont Graduate University. So, far my career has led me to reside briefly outside of Southern California. I have lived in Green Bay, WI and Bakersfield, CA (located in the state's Central Valley). 

In my spare time I enjoy reading, spending time with family and friends, and occasionally working on D.I.Y. projects at home as well as the occasional baking. Currently, I'm learning how to cross stitch.