I'm First: Yuleika in Miami, FL
Channel: Kelly Merrill Jr.
Date: 2015-05-14

My name is Yuleika Nuñez. I was born in Dalton, Georgia on February 3rd 1996. My parents are both immigrants from Mexico City,  Mexico, so I received my dual citizenship making me a proud Mexican American. I have two older brothers and one younger sister. My life growing up has always been a humble one, one where the value of a dollar was enforced. This made me and my siblings be raised in a household of strict disciplinary and intellectually high standards. My family has the upmost influence in my life. They are the people who shaped me and my character to how I am today. It is because of them that I strive to be a better me each day. 
          Through out my entire school career I was always the girl who excelled way past her standards and limits. I was the smart one, the one that everyone expected to be successful. My grade point average was always among the highest in my classes, and my involvement within my schools always earned me more respect or prestige with my peers. I was and continue to be this way because of the heavy influence my family and culture have on me. Coming from a strict Latin culture, my parents and God parents always expected the best and nothing less from us children. I, however, wanted to have a different motive for success than just pleasing my elders. I aspire to make an impact or a change, however minimal in the world. I believe that if I change someone's perspective, ideals, or situation than I made a significant difference in the world. 
          After my parents divorced, my family's strong bond was shaken, and we needed some kind of closure or motive to proceed. My escape was school. I submerged my self with books and classes to continue to strive for myself. While I was excelling intellectually, I realized that I wasn't excelling with my family. It is because of this that I noticed that my sister and mother, had changed. Since then, I dedicated myself to cater to my family's needs as well and not just my own. I wanted to become a role model for my family; a strong figure in there lives that they can count on with any thing they needed. Independence and success were my major goals. To achieve this, I knew I had to make a life changing decision, so three months after my graduation, I moved to Miami Shores, Florida to attend Barry University. Here, I am studying International Studies, and minoring in French. Naturally, I found a support system and home involving myself in numerous organizations. I have made life long friends here that share the same dream, and we motivate each other to meet our goals. I met staff and professors who teach me and guide me, so that I can reach my full potential in everything I do. Here at Barry, I learned and continue to learn more about myself and how I can be an effective leader in my community and with my family.