Greetings fellow Braves, 
I'm Magally Ortiz- Rojas, a junior here at UNCP double majoring in Political Science and Sociology. I am the student engagement intern for Community and Civic Engagement. I have served this office for 3 years now and have loved every moment of it. I previously worked with the CARE Resource Center for two years, including being the student manager. I recently transitioned into the student engagement position to try something different. Currently, I plan a lot of our democratic engagement efforts, service opportunities, and deliberative dialogues. Some notable events have been the "Voter Renaissance Tour" and the fall Alt Break trip. I have some pretty cool events planned for this semester, so be on the lookout!
I also serve as Student Body Vice President! I have been a part of SGA for 3 years as well. During my time in SGA, I served as Freshman senator and University and Community Relations chair before I was elected Vice-President. As Vice President, I have the opportunity to work closely with our senators and preside over our weekly senate meetings. I am also a co-founder and secretary of the Latin Student Union (LSU). LSU is my joy and pride. I want this organization to unite all Hispanic and Latino students as well as non-Hispanic and Latino students to share more of our culture and heritage. Lastly, I was recently inducted into the 1887 society!
I take pride in our University. Affordability and community are the big highlights that made me choose UNCP. I grew up in Robeson County, so this is home. I love how tight-knit and supportive this campus is. I have had doors of opportunities open that have assisted me in my path toward my dream of becoming a lawyer! Recently, I was accepted into the University of Virginia Law School Roadmap Scholar program. This has truly been a life-changing opportunity because it has exposed me to law school and the legal field while providing financial and networking support.
My piece of advice for students is this: you only have 4 years here at UNCP, so make every moment count. Make friends and make memories. Explore who you are as an individual by connecting with different organizations. Find your passions and take charge in that. Make a change in your community. Apply to that internship or job, reach for that leadership position etc. Don't let your fears cause you to live with the "what-ifs." Be Bold and Be Brave.
Go Braves,
Magally Ortiz- Rojas
