...

My unique experience as a Caminante has provided me with cherishable memories, from learning about the historical context of “piñatas” to exploring different art mediums such as painting. Additionally, the Caminos program has allowed me to engage in meaningful conversations about the importance of Latino culture and mental health. The program has taught me meaningful life lessons that I’ll carry throughout my life. I learned the importance of being earnest, the significance of ensuring I respond to my emotions, and my capability of nurturing relationships.

Every month of Caminos brought in enjoyable experiences. During this internship, I’ve visited the Blanton Museum of Art, worked with art professional Miguel Santana, collaborated with other Caminantes, and engaged with the Austin community through signature MACC events. Participating in events like Dia De Los Muertos and La Posada has encouraged me to be proud of my Latino culture. Additionally, I’ve experienced how fast relationships grow during Caminos. For instance, our program coordinator, Eufemia, ensures that everyone is happy, safe, and cooperative. Whereas our Senderista, Jayla, exemplifies the true spirit of a Caminate; she not only went above and beyond by reflecting her passion toward Latino culture and art, but also became a force of communication within Caminos. 

Throughout my time in Caminos, I’ve learned how significant mental health is among teens. For instance, conversations with the Institute of Chicana/o/x Psychology & Community Wellness provided valuable insight into mental health challenges in Latino communities. On this day, the interns took an expedition with the Zamarippas to visit our family (the river, the animals, the trees, the wind). This journey felt relaxing because it wasn’t something I was accustomed to. As a high-school senior, I was managing a heavy coursework load of 4 AP classes, the competitive college application process, and the leadership I have maintained through my numerous extracurricular activities. Thus, this experience allowed me to relieve the academic pressure I’ve put myself under and inspired me to balance my academic life and mental health. Having this experience with the other interns enabled me to develop the area I’m in into a safe place: one with no judgment. 

Another activity I enjoyed during my time as a Caminante was when one of the second-year Caminantes, Aiden, taught everyone how to create a zine from scratch. I had decided to create a zine, titled “Ways to Calm a Busy Mind,” which showcased the different mechanisms individuals can utilize to combat mental health. For instance, I depicted journaling and sleeping as ways to calm someone’s mind when they’re under internal or external pressure. I was inspired to create this zine because I’ve noticed that numerous of my friends are battling against something that’s keeping them from reaching a non-stressed state. For this reason, the zine was created as a way to shine hope in one’s life. I hope to emphasize that no one’s alone and that it’s okay to ask for help. Additionally, I chose to incorporate a drawing of an individual asking for help because I wanted to highlight that connecting one’s heart and illuminating one's feelings to people will be beneficial for the person seeking advice.