Hello,

My name is Kenia Barajas-Salazar. I am pursuing two bachelor of science degrees in Environmental Science and Zoology at NC State University. 

Growing up in the City of Raleigh has given me the ability to visit beaches, mountains, trails, lakes, rivers, etc. that are not more than 4 hours away. It is like in the middle of everything, which is convenient. I explored a lot of Raleigh throughout my years as I have lived in different parts of the city. I moved to other schools with varying cultures and individuals. I have learned that I may be cautious about new settings but as I take in my surroundings I like to explore the new. It has taught me how environments can change and how to adapt to them. I had grown in my understanding of the world and how not everything will be the same everywhere. This concept pushed me to always want more incredible things for myself. It is why I pursued early college and was studying Business Administration.  As you review my portfolio, I hope that I have expressed that each opportunity that has come across me has taught me several concepts. Even those opportunities, that I was not successful in fully obtaining. Every assignment fails, interview fails, and goal fails, has provided me with new aspects of how to improve. 

My primary extracurricular activities/ involvements at Raleigh have included: soccer, volleyball, Miracle League Seasonal Buddy, Volunteering in organizations such as habitat for humanity, Raleigh Triangle Parks, Second Chance Adoptions, Zoology club, Companion Animal Club, etc. I have been involved in mentoring and student ambassador work since back in elementary school. I have been part of four great programs at NC State University:  James Buzzard Leadershi[ Program, Chancellor Leadership Development Program, Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program, and TRIO McNair program. These programs flourish the passions that I want to grow and exhibit to others in hopes of inspiration. The James Buzzard Leadership Development and Chancellor Leadership Development Program exposed me to the definitions of a leader throughout different disciplines and the real-life actions of leadership. I have also learned the importance of social networking and the functions of success. Then, the Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program opened my eyes to all the possibilities there are in the conservation world and how to circulate hope. I have initiated, held, and shared in open inclusive spaces. I have gained research experience, by doing field work and then learning how to decipher data to answer specific questions. The retreats and summer internships have allowed me to pursue a greater future for myself in preparedness and experience. Furthermore, the TRIO McNair program has taught me how to better utilize resources and relationships, and explore professional workshops like accessing graduate school, smart goals, and attain additional courses learning about stocks and stock markets, etc. 

My shared leadership vision is to communicate about mental health, self-empowerment, and equity among economic classes and underrepresented groups. To accomplish this vision, my personal mission is to use my bilingual skills to communicate with stakeholders that will create greater accessibility to education through awareness and call to action.