This Q&A is part of the story series Voices of Drake that highlights the diversity, ambition, and passion of the incredible people who make up our campus community. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we will be sharing a collection of interviews to spotlight some of the amazing people in our community who identify as Hispanic, Latino, Latina, or Latinx. This week’s story introduces Drake University senior Chelsea Martinez.
Tell us about yourself. I am a senior at Drake, majoring in Law, Politics, and Society (LPS) with minors in sociology and psychology, all the way from Dallas, Texas. I have been interested in law since high school, where I participated in mock trial for two years and was part of the law academy. I am a proud Hispanic, first-generation student—the first in my family to not only graduate high school, but to attend college.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? It means connecting everyone to the rich traditions and diversity of Spanish-speaking countries through a shared sense of community. It sends a powerful message: “We are here, we are everywhere,” validating the presence and impact of Hispanic people in everyday society. It is a time to look back at historical struggles, recognize their impact, and chart a supportive course forward for future generations while honoring the foundational, often-overlooked labor and sacrifice of generations of immigrants who built paths of opportunity.
Why did you choose to attend Drake? I chose Drake so I could move independently and study outside of Texas. The law program interested me, especially LPS. I originally planned to study business law, but I didn’t want to be locked into one specific area. LPS was the perfect way for me to explore different aspects of law while gaining independence.
What is your favorite thing about Drake? My favorite thing about Drake is how student-oriented it is, along with the many events held on campus. There are so many resources available, as well as events that help you build professionalism and create connections. I also love Drake Relays and the tradition-packed week leading up to it, including the Painted Square, paint fight, carnival, and study sessions that set you up for success.
In what ways have you grown since coming to Drake? Since coming to Drake, I have become much more confident in class discussions and individual presentations. I’ve learned to put myself out there, become more independent, and branch out to join new communities and build lasting connections.
What do you hope to do after you graduate? After graduation, I plan to study for and take the LSAT, apply to law schools, and look for law internships or jobs to gain hands-on experience and learn what legal office work is like.
Who have been some of your important mentors during your time at Drake? My first-year mentor was a huge support system for me, especially being so far from home. My family has also been my biggest support system from afar. Additionally, I am so grateful for my junior year high school business law teacher, who has consistently checked in on me and supported me throughout my years at Drake.
Are you involved in any student organizations, groups, or community service work? Tell us about those experiences. When I came to Drake, I joined the First-Generation Bulldogs organization and served on the Executive Council (EC) for two years. I am also involved with the Violence Intervention Program (VIP), where we provide students with resources to navigate consent, boundaries, personal safety, and bystander intervention. Currently, I serve on the Executive Council for La Fuerza Latina, and I’m excited to see what is in store for my final year.
What do you hope is accomplished during this month of celebration and recognition? I hope it helps build a fair and welcoming society through education and mutual respect, while bringing visibility to the stories, achievements, and leadership of Hispanic communities.
Who has been the biggest influence in your life, and what lessons did that person teach you? My Tía has been the biggest influence in my life alongside my parents. Ever since I was in elementary school, she has told me “the sky is the limit” and encouraged me to never give up. She taught me not to listen to negative thoughts from others or myself, reminding me that the mind is powerful—whatever you speak out loud, you will begin to believe, and it will come true with faith and hard work. Even though she didn’t have the opportunity to go to college, she embodies strength and shows me true “Mexican power.”
How do you like to spend your free time? Tell us about your hobbies and interests. I love watching movies and TV shows. Right now, I am hooked on The Lincoln Lawyer, and my boyfriend and I are rewatching all the Marvel movies and shows in preparation for Avengers: Doomsday. I also want to get back into reading more books. Outside of school, I work at Chipotle, play Fortnite, and enjoy casual games like Overcooked.
What advice would you like to give to a student thinking about coming to Drake next year? Don’t feel pressured to know exactly what you want to do right away—explore your options! Don’t be afraid to branch out and try organizations or classes outside your comfort zone; you never know if you’ll discover a new passion or meet lifelong friends. You have a lifetime for your career, but only a few years in college, so enjoy it. Learn as much as you can and never be afraid to ask questions—remember that “asking questions will get you to your destination.” Finally, take full advantage of scholarships and financial resources offered to you!