Memo y su frijol
Category: Written Work
Author(s): Melissa Chavira-nieto
Presenter(s): Melissa Chavira-nieto
Mentors(s): Yaneli Munoz
First-generation students are not defined by the challenges they face, but by who they are despite them. This written piece explores how a first-generation student’s identity can be represented outside of stereotypical narratives that focus only on struggle, hardship, or cultural tropes. First-generation students are often seen through stories of trauma and sacrifice, when our identities are much more complex. Identity is framed here as a product of exploration, imagination, and resilience rather than struggle alone. Through the story of Memo, a playful and unconventional cat, readers can see first-generation identity reframed in a more positive way. Memo challenges the narrative that identity must always be tied to hardship and instead represents curiosity, freedom, and self-expression. This small, grey, feisty cat explores his new home with joy, finding fascination in the smallest things. The story also connects to my experience as a Latina first-generation student. Memo lives in a Mexican American household and often plays with the frijoles (beans) my mom drops while cooking. While beans have historically been used as a stereotype against Mexican communities, Memo does not carry that meaning. To him, they are simply small objects to chase. Through Memo, the story encourages readers to see identity beyond stereotypes.