Destani Bizune, 2012

What was your favorite LSGS course?
My favorite LSGS course had to be the intro. I initially took the course because it had some of my favorite "buzzwords," race, gender, class. I was only a sophomore and while I had taken a few Women's Studies and African/African American Studies classes,

reading the course description for this class made me realize that I knew absolutely nothing about Latin@s. I was like a little sponge, and I soaked up everything that Prof. Antonio Viego had to teach us. This class taught me that I have to think beyond black and white in order to really make a positive impact on society.

What are your post-graduation plans?
I am currently exploring the field of public health. I always thought that I was going to medical school, but the courses offered in this certificate have shown me that in order to eliminate and reduce health disparities, we have to address more than just people's physical problems. We have to attack the social determinants that prevent certain groups from achieving full health equity. I hope to apply to school for public health in the coming year, and will hopefully put my undergraduate education to good use!

If you could give one piece of advice to younger students in the LGSG certificate program, what would it be?
I would say think outside the disciplines. Sometimes we get so bogged down in trying to fulfill requirements that we become too narrow-minded. I was so entrenched in particular area of study that it wasn't until this year that I finally branched into unknown territory, and my only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. Each discipline has something unique and valuable to offer, and if it piques your interest take it! So what if a class doesn't fit into your major perfectly; make it fit! The great thing about fields like Latino/a studies is that they can be applied to almost any other area. You just have to get a little creative, but when you do, unexpected things can happen.