Raquel Farah-Robison

Major: sociology and Hispanic studies

Hello Obies of 2013. I’m originally from El Salvador, though I’ve lived in Arlington, Virginia for over a decade. Now that I’m a third year and have declared both of my majors, I’m really looking forward to getting deeper into the topics that interest me, especially social justice and immigration issues in Latin America.

When I first got to Oberlin, I thought I would probably major in English, since it had been my favorite subject in high school. My first-year seminar, “Social Justice in the United States,” really got me thinking about what I wanted to do with my life and helped me realize that my passion lies in helping people. I’m now considering becoming a social worker and, since I’m bilingual, I think I want work with immigrant communities or somewhere in Latin America. (The classes at the College in Spanish are fantastic, by the way.)

I have also been involved with the Immigrant Worker Project, America Reads tutoring, Spanish in the Elementary Schools, and La Alianza Latina. During one winter term, I spent time in El Salvador. I have also worked as a teaching assistant in the Hispanic studies department. I hope we get a chance to chat during orientation and don’t be shy about emailing me with any questions you have!

Short List of Favorites

Favorite local cuisine: Smelly tater tots from the Feve.

Favorite author: Isabel Allende. You should read her in the original Spanish if possible!

Favorite Under-advertised Resource at Oberlin: The Multicultural Resource Center (MRC). The MRC is a great way for people who identify with all kinds of under-represented backgrounds to connect. They put on programs, have an awesome staff, and a lounge with a plasma TV where students are welcome almost any time.

Favorite First-year Courses

FYSP 191. Social Justice in the United States (see above). It is not, alas, offered this fall.