By Cindy Venegas
Staff Writer
Students described themselves feeling empowered and ready to take on life’s challenges after attending the March 15 Women’s Conference in the Loker Student Union.
With a crowd of about 200 attendees attending the keynote, and 25 to 35 students attending workshops, the conference’s planning committee called the fourth-annual event a success.
About 70 percent of the student body at Cal State Dominguez Hills is female.
Mayra Soriano, associate director of Encounter to Excellence, said students were receptive and appreciative of the messages.
“Keep in mind this event occurs every year,” Mayra said. “There’s dialogue, they converse and see what it means to be part of a community, identify with other women and (get) a great opportunity to hear from others and meet mentors.”
Students had a chance to meet with alumnae through a speed mentoring activity and learn about their experience toward success after college.
Speakers Nikkita Oliver and Gretel Vera-Rosas focused on self-empowerment, teaching students to look within themselves and learn to advocate for all women, not just for themselves, and engage the community.
Linda Lewis, graduate student in negotiation, conflict resolution and peace-building, said these events help prepare students for life after graduation. They’ll be more involved in organizations and be able to deal with real-life scenarios.
During the afternoon workshops, students were able to network and participate in activities, such as creating posters for civil rights, access to education/ healthcare, immigration and other causes, in order to learn how to take the first steps in becoming advocates.
“I came from a different culture, so I learned something new that helps for the future,” said Majed Alnefaie, 37, a communications major who moved to the U.S. from Saudi Arabia three years ago.
