Alfredo Cervantes Frías

Do you have a particular standout course or professor from your time as an undergraduate student?

 My favorite class in my major was SPAN 315, Spanish in Context for Heritage Speaker, taught by Professor Burns in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. This course not only reassured me of my educational path but also sparked a deeper interest in language instruction. The guidance of professors like Ellen Serafini, Ricardo Vivancos-Pérez, Esperanza Roman Mendoza, Antonio Carreño, and Lisa Rabin significantly influenced my academic growth and deepened my appreciation for Spanish pedagogy.

What activities were you involved in during your time at Mason that impacted you the most? 

 During my time at Mason, I served as the Editor-in-Chief for the bilingual literacy journal, Hispanic Culture Review, curating the 2022-23 edition with over 500 international submissions. This experience broadened my understanding of global perspectives. Additionally, studying abroad twice in Spain, particularly in Granada, was transformative, allowing me to immerse myself in Spanish culture. Coming from a small rural town in México, these opportunities were beyond my initial expectations and have significantly contributed to my personal and academic growth.  Furthermore, serving as the Public Relations Chair for the Beta Chi Chapter of Phi Iota Alpha Fraternity Inc. was a significant aspect of my time at Mason, enabling me to contribute to the community and foster strong connections within the fraternity and the broader Greek Life community.

Share a memorable "Mason moment."

One standout memory from my time at Mason is the first day of class. Walking to class, the resonance of Jose Alfredo Jimenez's music provided a powerful link to my cultural roots on campus. Reflecting on the journey from my 12-year-old self, who had recently arrived in the United States, leaving both my parents in Mexico, it became a heartfelt moment of self-discovery and character development. 

Reflecting on your time at Mason, what is one piece of advice you would give a student who is just starting off on their Mason journey?

Reflecting on my time at Mason, I'd advise new students, especially first-generation ones, to prioritize building a supportive community. Navigating higher education can be challenging, but finding like-minded individuals facing similar struggles can empower and uplift you. This community not only aids academic growth but also enriches personal development on the journey to success.

What is your next step?

My next step involves pursuing a career in education and teach Spanish at a high school. Additionally, I aspire to combine my passion for photography and exploration by traveling abroad with my camera to capture the diverse cultures around the world. I aim to extend my teaching experiences by exploring opportunities to teach abroad, with particular interest in locations such as Spain or Thailand.