Valentina Rivera-Rodriguez, (She/Her/Hers)

is pursuing a Master's degree in Latin American and Caribbean Studies. In May of 2020, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and English with a focus in Creative Writing from the University of Kansas. During her undergraduate career, Valentina had the opportunity to develop and converge each of her scholarly interests into a three-part, interdisciplinary thesis, which explores issues related to Testimonio literature, collective memory, and collective trauma. Specifically, Valentina is interested in the formation of collective trauma, and the ways in which social, political, and cultural structures and institutions may facilitate, impede, or suppress it.

Valentina is excited to continue her research and education with a refined focus in Latin American and Caribbean studies, and to be learning Portuguese as a Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Fellow. While her academic interests are sure to expand and develop, Valentina plans to maintain a focus on social justice issues.