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 are 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 student Jacqueline Villafana Zapatero.
Tell us about yourself.
I am Jacqueline Villafana. I was born in Omaha, Nebraska, but raised in Des Moines, Iowa. I graduated from Urbandale High School and earned my associate degree from DMACC before transferring to Drake University. My family is from Celaya, Guanajuato, and my first language was Spanish. I am the oldest of four children in my family. I work at Inmobiliaria Inc., where we focus on helping Hispanic and Latino entrepreneurs and community members.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
To me, Hispanic Heritage Month means celebrating the impact Hispanics have made and continue to make within our community. This month should recognize the accomplishments, culture, and contributions made by Hispanics, as well as the ways they have helped shape our communities. We should learn from the different backgrounds and experiences within the Hispanic community. Most importantly, Hispanic Heritage Month reminds me to be proud of where I am from and to always strive to be better—becoming a leader like those who have helped carve the path and open new doors.
Why did you choose to attend Drake?
I chose to attend Drake University because it allowed me to stay close to home while getting a great education. Another reason I chose Drake was that I felt it would give me the opportunities and connections I need in Des Moines to prepare for my career after graduation. I believe that if you put in the work, get involved, and take advantage of the opportunities Drake provides, you can leave fully prepared professionally to take on whatever plans you have for yourself.
What is your favorite thing about Drake?
My favorite thing about Drake is the opportunities it offers students. Drake holds its students to a high standard and takes pride in helping them succeed. I appreciate that the University encourages students to get involved, make networking connections, and take advantage of available resources. These opportunities have helped me grow both personally and academically, and I believe Drake is preparing me for success beyond college.
In what ways have you grown since coming to Drake?
Since coming to Drake, I have grown both personally and professionally. I have developed and continued practicing my public speaking skills. Having to present ideas and speak in front of others has helped me become more confident and comfortable speaking to larger crowds.
Another area where I have grown is understanding the power of networking. Drake has shown me how valuable it is to build relationships with professors, classmates, and professionals. I have learned that networking is not just about making connections, but also about building relationships that can create opportunities and expose me to different perspectives. Drake has helped me gain confidence and allowed me to continuously put everything I am learning into practice.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
When I graduate from Drake University, I hope to land a job where I can put my degree in finance into practice. I would like to start my career in a position where I can apply the knowledge and skills I learned in college while continuously growing professionally. I want to stay involved in my community, and although I do not know what kind of business I would like to start yet, I hope to one day own a business where I can help others.
Who have been some of your important mentors during your time at Drake?
Two important mentors during my time at Drake have been my academic advisor, Lauren McCarthy, and my friend, Esme. Lauren has helped me navigate my time here academically, keeping me on track with academic goals that allow me to reach my personal goals. My friend Esme has been another important mentor who encourages me to stay involved at Drake and take advantage of everything the school has to offer. Through her encouragement, I have become more involved and met new people. I am deeply grateful for both of them and appreciative of the opportunity to work with and get to know them.
Are you involved in any student organizations, groups, or community service work? Tell us about those experiences.
I am involved in two student organizations at Drake: Alpha Kappa Psi and La Fuerza Latina. Alpha Kappa Psi is a professional business fraternity that has helped me grow professionally by developing my communication, networking, and leadership skills. Being part of the organization has given me opportunities to connect with other students and give back to our community by volunteering alongside my fraternity brothers. I have also held two Executive Committee positions: Secretary and VP of Service.
I am also involved in La Fuerza Latina, which has allowed me to become more connected to my Hispanic culture and learn from the experiences of others. Being involved has built a strong sense of community and belonging for me. Both organizations have had a meaningful impact on my experience here at Drake.
What do you hope is accomplished during this month of celebration and recognition?
During this month of celebration and recognition, I hope to encourage people to learn more about Hispanic culture and the Hispanic community. I hope people gain a better understanding and appreciation for our different traditions and backgrounds. Hispanics have made—and continue to make—a significant impact not only in our town, but throughout the entire country and around the world. I hope this month gives people an opportunity to recognize those contributions.
Who has been the biggest influence in your life, and what lessons did that person teach you?
The biggest influence in my life has been my parents. They taught me the value of hard work. Growing up, I saw how hard they worked to provide for my siblings and me, and they are the reason I have opportunities they did not have themselves. Their sacrifices have shown me that success does not happen without effort, hard work, and a willingness to take advantage of every opportunity to learn and improve. Everything they have done motivates me to work hard and make the most of my opportunities to build a successful future.
How do you like to spend your free time? Tell us about your hobbies and interests.
In my free time, I like to go running and watch movies. I started running in 2025 and completed a 10K in the Drake Road Races, which was a big accomplishment for me. I am currently signed up to run a half marathon this upcoming year, so I have been working on my endurance and pace. Running has become a fun way to stay active while spending time with my sister. I also enjoy going to movie theaters and watching movies with my siblings, which is a great way for us to bond.
What advice would you like to give to a student thinking about coming to Drake next year?
Give yourself the opportunity to truly get to know Drake before making your decision. When I first visited campus, I was intimidated because Drake is a private school, but everyone I met during my visit was very welcoming and made me feel like I could see myself being part of the community. Since coming to Drake, I have taken advantage of many growth opportunities the school offers. Being involved in different organizations has helped me meet new people and grow both personally and academically.