Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Mariana Sánchez
10/02/2020 | 2:00:00 | Swimming & Diving
CARBONDALE, Ill. - Sophomore Mexico City native Mariana Sánchez sits down with SIUSalukis.com to discuss her roots swimming in Mexico and transitioning to Southern Illinois.
Why did you choose swimming?
That's a hard question to answer. When I'm swimming, it's only swimming. Everything goes apart and my mind is only focused on swimming. I don't worry about my problems when I'm swimming.
What significant traditions did you have growing up in Mexico?
Day of the Dead was the biggest one. That's a tradition that I really like. We all embrace it in Mexico and really have a great time with it.
When's the last time you were able to go back to Mexico?
In August. I only go there on vacations now.
How was your transition to the United States?
It was really hard. It was very different here. Everything works different here. It's good though. I'm getting used to it.
How important is it for you to know more about Mexican culture?
I think it's very important because there's a lot of stereotypes about Mexicans and Latinos. I feel like it's very important to us to demonstrate our real culture and to dismiss the stereotypes about us. I'm really happy and proud of my culture and where I grew up. I like that I can come here and change perceptions and learn about American culture.
What makes you proud to be Mexican?
The history of it all. There's always going to be good and bad stuff. But, I'm proud how we developed throughout history. It makes me proud to feel that I'm a part of that.
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