We often move through campus focused on classes and responsibilities, rarely pausing to notice the communities forming around us. That changed on Feb. 19, when Sigma Delta Pi, Chapter Alpha Beta Sigma, hosted an event here on our campus and inducted many people, myself included.
At first, when I received the invitation, it took me some time to realize the magnitude of the opportunity and the honor it represented. It is not about certificates or titles, but about people who have committed themselves to studying Spanish with discipline and intention.
There are countless hours spent learning literature, linguistics and culture, and this event served as a meaningful recognition of that dedication and hard work. It was a day to celebrate the Spanish-speaking world and everything it represents across countries, histories and generations.
What stood out most that evening was the sense of support and the excitement of becoming part of a community that began at the University of California, Berkeley, in 1919. For more than a century, this organization has brought together students who share a passion for the Spanish language and its cultures. We live surrounded by people, yet we rarely pause to truly know who is around us. Who are our neighbors? Our colleagues? Who is the person we smile at every day?
I believe it is in our nature to seek connection, belonging and meaningful community. During the induction, I witnessed how powerful that connection can be. In this case, it was the Spanish language that linked everyone together in a profound and inspiring way.
Friends and professors showed up in support, filling the space with pride and encouragement.
What makes me especially proud of being a fierce rooster, a Chanticleer, is our campus’s ability to gather and uplift one another. No matter the activity, there is always a space where people can share who they are and feel valued in return.
Through this event, I learned that Spanish is much more than a subject taught in a classroom. It is connection, identity, shared history and community. When students are recognized for excellence in this field, it affirms the importance of multilingual education and cultural engagement on our campus. It reminds us that language is not only something we study, but something that brings us together and strengthens our academic community.
