Posted by By Lindsey Clinton, Co-Editor-In-Chief
Navigating high school and the life that follows is no easy feat. We all strive to immediately find a place that suits us whether it be a club, sport, or a group of friends to always rely on. Emily Inga, senior at New Paltz high school, is no exception to this rule as she looked to become involved in her freshman year.
One of Emily’s most formative teachers, Rodrigo Castro, introduced her to PR/HYLI or the Puerto Rican Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute which is a task force intended to develop leadership and knowledge of the state legislative process as well as provide opportunities for Latino/Hispanic students.
“Mr. Castro told me about PR/HYLI when I was a freshman,” Emily says, “I was going to sign up but then Covid happened.”
Although the pandemic provided for unfortunate timing, affecting her ability to be a part of this group, Emily was still able to jump at the opportunity once it presented itself again. PR/HYLI introduced her to many new people, opportunities, and gave her experience in debates and mock assemblies at Albany.
But Emily’s time and dedication to developing her knowledge of Latino heritage and sharing it with others does not stop at her involvement with PR/HYLI as she is also the founder and president of New Paltz High School’s Latino Heritage Club. By combining forces with the International Club, Emily has helped lead the way to ensure that different cultures and backgrounds are represented and celebrated here at New Paltz. From holding events and presentations during the school day to taking trips to other schools like Lenape, the Latino Heritage Club has become essential in spreading knowledge and joy amongst students and faculty alike.
“We work on dances, play games, make food, which is probably the best part,” Emily begins with a growing smile. “I really like making food for events as a way to share our cultures.”
For some, the Latino Heritage Club introduces them to a plethora of cultures, holidays, and ethnicities, but for others, like Emily, it is her direct relation with the club that draws her in.
“My mom definitely inspires me.” Emily grins, sharing, “she is a first generation, came to America, and still got her degree in social work. Knowing my mom’s background influenced me to be in so many clubs.”
Taking her passion and inspiration with her to Northeastern University, Emily is excited to study abroad in countries like Peru, Ecuador, and Europe as a means of expanding her horizons.
“I want internships and good job experiences,” she says. “I want to work with people, not just be alone in a little office. I just want to explore. I love to travel which is why I am going to be studying abroad.”
But back at college she still plans on joining clubs similar to the Latino Heritage club or PR/HYLI. Looking back on her high school experience and not being able to get as involved in the school community as she would’ve liked freshman year, Emily has come to understand that there can only be benefits in reaching out and joining groups.
Reflecting on her past four years in high school, Emily begins to laugh as she shares, “It gets really chaotic. It gets really busy, But everything gets better after freshman year.”
The Maroon 