Joel A. Saldaña Pérez

I am a first generation university student, funding my education with grants and scholarships. I grew up in Mexico, California, and Arizona and attended Yuma High School in Yuma, Arizona. I graduate from there in May 2009 with distinction (Top 10).

In 2009, I began my undergraduate program at the University of Arizona. Initially, I wanted to study Mathematics and Classics and go into the healthcare field as either a Registered Nurse or a Medical Doctor. However, upon taking classes in the Departments of Spanish and Portuguese and Mexican American Studies, I decided to change my major and study Translation and Interpretation, Hispanic Linguistics, and Mexican American Studies with a concentration in Mesoamerican Indigenous culture and traditional systems of healing. I graduated with my Bachelor's degree in 2014 and am currently pursuing my Master's degree in Mexican American Studies, also at the University of Arizona.

I enjoy learning about the history of ancient cultures—Maya, Aztec, Inca, Greek, Romans, and Egyptians—and religions; and shows about medical mysteries and dramas (Grey's Anatomy, House, Dr. G, Medical Mystery). Finally, when I can, I like reading fiction books, writing poetry, watching movies and documentaries, or jogging around campus.