Arlenis Andujar
Year: Senior
Major: New Media
Minor: Arts Management
Hometown: The Bronx
Favorite food: Cocido
Sign: Gemini
Color: Green
What is your motivation to succeed?
Being Dominican and growing up the oldest in the household as well as being first generation and from The Bronx my drive to succeed comes from a deep desire to demonstrate that individuals like me, who come from similar backgrounds, can achieve great things. I am passionate about breaking down the negative stereotypes associated with my community. I love inspiring others and proving that we are more than the limitations society might place on us. I love helping and empowering those around me, sharing my experiences, and encouraging others to pursue their dreams because you can really do anything you put your mind to.
Tell us something most people don’t know about you.
During my first year at Purchase, I faced significant academic challenges. By the end of that semester, I left with a GPA of 1.8 and was placed on academic probation. If it weren’t for Glory reaching out to me that summer to complete a SAP (Satisfactory Academic Progress) Appeal to ensure me regaining my academic standing, and sitting down with me to work out an academic game plan I honestly wouldn’t be where I am today with a declared major/minor and ending my last semester with a 3.6 as well as even being an EOP mentor this past summer.
What are your long-term goals?
As of right now my long-term goals are centered around achieving true financial stability, finding a fulfilling career, and creating a personal space where I feel at home.
What does EOP/MAP mean to you?
I have always said this; EOP means the world to me. It’s more than just a program, calling it that barely scratches the surface of what it represents. EOP to me is family, I honestly wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for EOP. The support, guidance and sense of belonging I’ve received have really shaped the person I am today. The people closest to me I’ve met through EOP. I honestly believe that without EOP, I wouldn’t have achieved the milestones I have or been in the position I am now. The program has provided me with not only the resources I needed but also with a network of people who genuinely care about me and my success. It’s a community that has helped me grow and thrive, and for that, I am deeply grateful and will always give back.
What’s your most invaluable experience at Purchase?
Due to covid I had my summer EOP program online, of course there was a small disconnect due to it being via zoom, it lacked some of the personal interactions and the hands-on engagement that are integral to the EOP experience. This past summer I was able to return to the program but as a mentor. This not only allowed me to give back and support incoming students while getting the perspective viewpoint of a mentor rather than a participant but also provided me with the chance to experience some of the in-person elements that I had previously missed. This experience was extremely fun and unforgettable.