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������ graduate Erik Gomez, who earned his bachelor’s degree in political science in May, spoke at Spring Commencement about his journey as a first-generation Latino-American student.

Gomez, who was active in student government, completed an internship with the U.S. Senate before graduation and is currently working there as a staff assistant.

He also was a member of the McNair Scholars Program, which prepares first-generation, undergraduate students, from groups underrepresented in graduate schools, for doctoral study.

Gomez said he selected Kent State for his education, “Because of its history of political activism and student organizing.”

The son of immigrants from Colombia, Gomez was raised outside of Miami, Florida, and told the group that eight out of 10 Hispanics aged 25 or older do not have a college degree.

“It is statistically improbable that I will walk on this stage in my cap and gown and get this degree,” Gomez said, “Despite these numbers, I will do just that.”

Gomez told the audience that he learned from his parents that hard work is the key to success.

 “They taught me the value and dignity of hard work,” he said.

Watch Gomez’s speech here: