Marcela Quiroga Vargas ‘24 is the student speaker at the Class of 2024 Commencement. She auditioned for the honor and was chosen by a student committee.
Marcela Quiroga Vargas ‘24
Hometown: Cochabamba, Bolivia
Major: Quantitative economics
Minor: Financial and actuarial mathematics
Activities: Spinning; Residential Education Work Study; Latin American Student Organization; World Around You; ESL teaching volunteer; Ski and Snowboard Club
Favorite class(es): Poetic Process with Professor Jordan Smith. Through reading poets and imitating their styles, I discovered a profound connection with words and my deepest emotions. This class ignited a new passion within me, allowing me to express and share the vulnerability of words. I even had the opportunity to share my poems during Homecoming 2022 with the English Department, which was a deeply fulfilling experience. Also, Probability with Professor Phanuel Mariano. His enthusiasm for numbers and unique teaching style made the subject engaging. Although I struggled initially, I proved to myself that with hard work and improved study skills, I could overcome any challenge. This class rekindled my love for mathematics, which I thought was lost, and reminded me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
What I will miss most: Union has gifted me not just life lessons but also incredible friends who will always be there for me. I'll deeply miss the late-night Mamma Mia dances with my best friends, the laughter that filled our library meetings where we were supposed to be academic weapons. The bonds with professors, built through their stories and wisdom, will forever be cherished. I'll never forget the beauty of sunsets at the Nott, Hunter the therapy dog chasing his tennis ball, or the joy of snowy days that turned the campus into a winter wonderland, complete with snow boots and bright, crisp days.
I'll also fondly remember the moments spent waiting eagerly at the door, ready to watch our dearest friend perform Bhangra. In those moments, our friendship grew as we became proud parents for each other, knowing that as international students, we didn't have our families here to watch our performances. We created a sense of family and shared love that made those moments unforgettable.
Advice for incoming students: Embrace every opportunity to learn from everyone around you. Within you lies a seed of potential, ready to be nourished by diverse knowledge and experiences. As you grow, remember to share your wisdom and help others flourish. Know that you have the power to touch and transform the lives of those around you.
Life after Union: Work in Sydney, Australia, or New York City to gather wisdom and experience as I build my path towards creating a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving diverse methods of learning in education for all.
