My name is Roberto Castro and I am a senior double majoring in Chinese and Politics. I am a Mexican American first generation college student from Chicago, Illinois. I have helped lead pre-orientation and collaborated with different offices on campus to connect other first generation students to any resources they need.

Class year: 2024
Pronouns:

I plan to double major in chemistry and math.  Some things I’m involved with here on campus is I am a member of the rowing team as well as part of the Res Life staff being the Milliken House Junior Advisor.  I’m a native Mainer, raised on a small island called Deer Isle about 3 hours north of Bates.  

Class year: 2025
Pronouns: she/her

Hi everyone! My name is Elizabeth (she/her) and I am a second-year student from Denver. Spanish is my first language and I am a proud daughter of Mexican parents. I love all things food, and if you ever need music recommendations I am your gal!

Class year: 2026
Pronouns: she/her

Hi all, my name is James and I’m a rising sophomore planning to major in Biology with a minor in Digital and Computational Studies. Besides being a first-gen peer mentor, I am also co-president of MUN, vice-president of bio club, and an active member of club volleyball. Beyond that I love running, hiking, fashion, and spending time with friends.

Class year: 2026
Pronouns: he/him

Hello everyone! My name is Darlene Igiraneza and I’m a junior majoring in Biology with a concentration in The Human Body. I’m a proud Burundian but I was born in Tanzania and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. I’m excited to be part of the OIE team and can’t wait to meet you all! 

Class year: 2025
Pronouns: she/her

Hello my name is Sydney Phan ’24 and I am a first-generation college student majoring in Sociology with concentrations in Africana and Rhetoric. I am from Zion, IL and am passionate about social justice and story-telling. One of my favorite things about Bates College is the variety of communities I find myself immersed in. One of those communities have stemmed from working in the Office of Intercultural Education. My role gives me the privilege to interact with other first-generation students as well as connecting them with the greater Bates community and all of the resources it has to offer.

Class year: 2024
Pronouns: she/her

Hello! My name is Sheila, I am a first-generation student here at Bates. I plan to pursue a major in Biology and minor in Chinese language. Fun fact, I love music; you will always see me with at least one AirPod in my ear every time!

Class year: 2026
Pronouns: she/her