Meet Edwin Gomez Colindrez
Edwin Gomez Colindrez is a passionate third-year student balancing dual majors in accounting and data science with a deep involvement in campus life. As vice president of both the Latinx Honors Society and Psi Sigma Phi, he brings leadership, heart and ambition to every role he takes on. Colindrez is a mentor to younger students and a man of many talents, from playing guitar and dancing Bachata to hiking and reading political philosophy. Born in the United States with family roots in Guatemala, he embodies the spirit of first-generation resilience, constantly seeking new passions and opportunities inside and outside the classroom.
What led you to choose UNC Charlotte, and how has your time here shaped your academic and personal growth?
The business curriculum at UNC Charlotte was the main factor in my decision to attend. The diversity on campus gave me confidence that I had chosen the college that best suited me. Academically, the University taught me new learning styles and efficient methods of retaining information. In terms of personal growth, the University provided an open environment to meet like-minded peers from a variety of backgrounds and communities. UNC Charlotte has given me new ambitions and opened my eyes to new passions.
As a first-generation college student, what challenges have you faced in your academic journey, and what advice would you give to other first-generation students?
One of the major challenges I faced was finding resources to help me decide on a career path after graduation. I strongly recommend visiting campus organizations to gain insight into potential career paths and to develop new skills. Take advantage of the resources offered by the University, as they can provide valuable information about post-graduation opportunities. Spend time exploring the available resources online and consider visiting them in person during their designated hours or by making an appointment.
You hold leadership roles in both the Latinx Honors Society and Psi Sigma Phi. How have these experiences influenced your growth as a leader and member of the community?
Having a creative outlet and an ambitious mindset to let ideas become a reality, working through roadblocks and seeing the results from my investments has influenced my growth. These leadership opportunities have strengthened my collaborative skill sets in communication, time management and have given me a stronger sense of empathy.
Mentoring is a big part of your life through programs like Students Achieving First Year Excellence and College Mentor for Kids. What do you enjoy most about it, and how has it impacted you?
Becoming a mentor has been one of the most insightful and intricate experiences, providing a unique bond with mentees. It has impacted me by allowing me to transition from what I’ve learned to preparing my mentees for the years ahead.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, what book, movie or song from the Hispanic world do you recommend everyone should experience?
I would recommend “The Underdogs” by Mariano Azuela.
If you could host a dinner party with three Hispanic or Latinx icons (alive or deceased), who would you invite and why?
I would invite Frida Kahlo, Pedro Infante and Sylvia Rivera. They all portrayed a sense of leadership that encouraged me to learn more about what they paved for the Hispanic community as a whole. Having a conversation with all of them over dinner would develop a new perspective and possibly conflicts that we can overcome.
What’s a favorite dish from your culture that you would recommend everyone try at least once?
I would definitely recommend Chuchitos!