About the Co-Researchers
Introducing the talented minds behind the lens
The seven co-researchers below have dedicated their time to sharing about their experiences as Immigrant-origin students. Their parent(s) immigrated to the United States from Mexico (6), Guatemala (2), and Iraq (2) between the 1980's and the early 2000's. Below is more about them and their time with the project. I sincerely thank each of them for their contribution to this work. This project would not have been possible without them.
Meet The People Who Made This Project Possible
Kadeja Alkanass
I am a first generation masters student in the UNL marriage and family therapy (MFT) program. My family is from Iraq but I was raised in Nebraska all my life. I am the eldest daughter of four other siblings. In my free time, I love to paint, find new things to cook, and spend time with family and friends.
Aaron Estrada-Escalera
Hello, my name is Aaron! I’m a 5th year Psychology student minoring in Ethnic Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies. I was born and raised in South Omaha. I chose to be a part of this study because I believe it is important to highlight the experiences of Immigrant-Origin students, especially during a time where xenophobia is being encouraged by both major political parties in the US. I love horror movies, playing video games, and walking around Downtown/The Haymarket. My favorite picture I took is the Alien vs Predator one and my favorite overall is The Face from Leo.
Victor G.
My name is Victor Garcia! I have plans to graduate from the University of Nebraska Lincoln in 2027 triple majoring in Child Youth and Family Studies, Psychology and Spanish. I have learned much during college from my various studies and my experiences in working with youth, I am also very motivated to seek higher education after undergrad so that later on I can find a position that focuses on working with troubled youth.
Leopoldo Hernandez
Hello y'all, I'm Leopoldo Hernandez. I'm a student studying at the University of Nebraska -Lincoln majoring in computer science. I'm originally from Dallas, Texas but moved to Omaha with my family about 10 years ago. I joined this study to demonstrate my life with my friends, family and overall well being. I enjoy going out with friends, collecting and maintaining succulent plants, collecting and repairing old video game consoles, and nature.
Denisse
I was born and raised in Grand Island NE. My mom is from Hidalgo, Mexico and my father is from Jalapa, Guatemala. During my summer breaks we would travel to Mexico to see family. Through the lack of sleep, hunger, and overstimulation caused by the airport chaos I never get tired of going because Mexico always have some sort of lively events going on such as: competitions, reunions, parties, and other various leisure activities. But above all I feel at home always welcomed with a warm embrace and meal. As for hobbies I enjoy: reading, writing, crocheting, cooking, and currently learning the basics of my mothers dialect (Otomi). The reason I wanted to join this study is because I wanted to be part of a community where those of immigrant origin are able to relate and express their experiences on campus either good or bad through pictures and discussions.
Anonymous Co-Researchers
Two co-researchers have chosen to remain anonymous.
