Meet Gaby Craan
Gaby Craan, originally from the Dominican Republic, has called Charlotte home for most of her life. As a first-generation college student, she has overcome many challenges. After starting as a chemistry major and taking a break for esthetician school, Craan returned to the University to pursue a degree in Spanish and health systems management. She’s earned spots on the Chancellor’s List and works part-time at Atrium Health while running her beauty business. Passionate about her Dominican roots, Craan is dedicated to advocating for health care access in the Hispanic community.
In what ways do you feel your Dominican background influences your daily life and career goals?
My daily life consists of listening to Latin music and putting a smile on people’s faces. Being kind and giving is ingrained in Dominican culture. Witnessing the hardships people in the Dominican Republic face has given me the drive to help others as much as possible. Working at Atrium Health has allowed me to advocate for Hispanics and Latinos and I hope to keep doing that in my future career in health care.
As a first-generation student, how has the University supported you in navigating your educational path?
As a first-generation student, UNC Charlotte has provided essential support in navigating my educational path. The variety of majors, minors and certificates has allowed me to explore my different interests and discover my passions.
When you’re not working or studying, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family and practicing self-care. Makeup has been my passion for years, allowing me to express my creativity.
What has it been like to manage both a part-time job at Atrium Health and your beauty business while pursuing your degree?
It’s been great! Thanks to good time management, I can focus on my studies during the week and dedicate Sundays to my beauty business. Working at Atrium Health gives me the flexibility to choose how many days I work, which is perfect for balancing work with being a full-time student. My main focus is earning my degree and having a part-time job with flexible hours allows me to do just that.
What advice would you give to other first-generation students?
I advise making a plan and setting small goals to reach your endpoint. Trying to figure everything out at a young age can be challenging, so you should take things one step at a time. It is okay to change your plan if it no longer suits your future. Seek guidance from someone you look up to, whether it’s a family member or someone working in your dream career.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, what book, movie and song from the Hispanic world do you think everyone should experience?
Poetry is one of my favorite genres to read. “Times Alone: Selected Poems of Antonio Machado” is a great read. Most people have seen the movie, “Coco,” which is a must-see film. A song that everyone should experience is “Lloraras” by Oscar D’Leon. This classic will get you out of your seat every time.
If you could host a dinner party with three Hispanic or Latinx icons (alive or deceased), who would you invite and why?
The first person on my list is Bad Bunny, because he is my favorite artist, and he advocates for his people through his music. Eugenio Derbez is my second pick because his success is inspiring, and I grew up watching all of his shows and movies. Lastly, I would choose Evangelina Rodriguez, the first female Dominican doctor, because her passions and drive align with mine.
What’s a favorite dish from your culture that you would recommend everyone try at least once?
There are so many to pick from, but I recommend sancocho. This dish encompasses the many cultures of the Dominican Republic with Taíno, African and Spanish flavors. It’s perfect for a rainy day, when you’re feeling sick or in the middle of summer to bring the family together.
