Meet Valentina Ixchel Flores, Associated Students Senator for the College of Humanities.
Valentina Ixchel Flores is a Chicana/o Studies Social Sciences major who plans a future career teaching High School Ethnic Studies and/or as a High School College Counselor. Although this is only her second year as a student, she is the daughter of a CSUN faculty member and says that the campus has long been a backdrop in her life. “I grew up coming to campus with my dad for events, a day in the office, or going into the field with him to help recruit students for CSUN/EOP.”
Flores admits that joining student government was not initially part of her educational plan. After her first year, however, she felt inspired to get more involved and find ways to effect a positive change during her tenure as a Matador. “While looking for scholarships over the summer, I started reading into Associated Students and that same week I submitted my application to become senator,” she says. “As an Associated Students Senator, I am the voice of our college. I attend weekly Senate meetings, Standing Committee meetings (Internal, External, and University Affairs), hold office hours, and I am currently working on events for the Spring semester.” An impressive list of responsibilities that provide Flores a myriad of opportunities to make an impactful difference.
In addition to her work in the hierarchy of student government, Flores is also active in the community and with her peers here on campus. “I also run Mariachi Aztlan Nueva Generación de Chicana/o Studies here at CSUN with my friends. The group is not only open to all students but also to the community.” She also works as a Student Assistant in the office of Student Outreach and Recruitment helping counselors guide prospective students through their transition from high school or community college into the university environment. “My goal as Senator, and in all the work I do, is to support student success in any way I can.”
Flores encourages everyone to reach out via email at humanities1@csunas.org with any questions, suggestions, or concerns. In addition, senate meetings are open and held every Monday from 9am-12pm in the Northridge Center, in the University Student Union. Finally, if you see her around campus, she encourages you to say hello.