Taís Solis graduated with an International Studies double major in Modern and Classical Languages (Spanish) with a Latin American certificate. Her Shocker experience helped prepare her for her position with the Office of Admissions and her goal to help Mexican-American students with access to higher education.

Hometown

Chicago, Illinois

Degree received

Graduated with a double major in International Studies and Modern and Classical Languages (Spanish) and a certificate in Latin American

Why did you choose Wichita State?

I chose Wichita State because I felt like it was home. It gave me many opportunities as a first-generation student and offered the guidance of great mentors to be able to succeed in my education.

Which organizations were you involved in during your time at Wichita State?

I was involved in the Student Ambassador Society, Hispanic American Leadership Organization, International Buddy Program, Study Abroad, and St. Paul Catholic Student Center.

How did being involved with the Student Ambassador Society/Admissions Office impact you?

Being involved in Student Ambassador Society helped me develop my communication skills, make an impact on other first-generation college students, and guide them through college. It also allowed me to represent my community through SAS and be supported by other students and advisors. It helped me grow so much in both my professional and personal life.

Which Wichita State faculty or staff member impacted you the most during your time here?

Professor Alberto Wilson and Professor Rocío Del Aguila. They both helped me academically, but they have also helped me with internships, mentorship, and guidance when I needed it most. 

How do you feel about graduating?

I am happy to be finished with this chapter in my life. It does still feel surreal to be graduating because I didn’t think I could make it this far. I think this is a phase due to me being the first one in my family to graduate.

Which experience at Wichita State challenged you the most and what did you take away from that challenge?

Definitely share my experience standing in front of 100+ people and giving them advice about college. I would’ve never imagined I could stand in front of so many people and help them or guide them to access higher education. WSU gave me the ability and support to be able to achieve that.

What are your post-grad plans?

After graduation, I plan on working full-time for the Office of Admissions to be able to help Mexican-American students like myself be able to go to college.

What advice would you give to incoming Wichita State students?

My advice would be to try new clubs, and organizations and join as many things you can and want. One of those organizations will be where you find your passion, meet your future best friends and find the career path that you didn’t know you wanted - just like I did.