At lunchtime, students crowd the Latino Student Union (LSU) booths, waiting in line to receive food – aguas frescas, tostadas de tinga and more. Students are drawn to the commotion of exciting music, dances and refreshments that never disappoint. Behind the scenes, three hardworking students make it all happen: President junior Jocelyn Gatica Arellano, Vice President junior Sophia Diaz Lopez and Chief of Staff senior Leslie Cesareo.

LSU has a large presence on campus, often hosting cultural events for students to engage in such as performances during the Diversity Assembly and in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, cultural food fairs and frequent lunchtime events for students to enjoy. Along with other projects, they have built culturally significant altars for Dia de los Muertos and sell snacks to students during the Holiday Fair. 

“I really enjoy when we’re able to give back to the community and school,” Sophia said. “I love being able to show people what our culture has.”

“They show up at 7:30 a.m. for meetings, even though they have other commitments,” LSU advisor Ariel Rojas said. “Sometimes I feel like I’m asking for too much, because they do a lot and are always willing to do the best they can.” 

Planning as many events as a club like LSU does requires time, effort and communication; but at the same time, it’s a way for officers to grow closer through cultural bonds and shared experiences. 

“It can be stressful at times, but I think that it is a great way to both collaborate and bond,” Leslie said.

LSU has been a source of fond memories for many — this is true for Jocelyn, who enjoyed both the process and the outcome of becoming an officer.

“The most memorable moment for me was joining LSU,” Jocelyn said. “The President and Vice President at the time were really supportive and encouraged me to run for an officer position. That’s why I enjoyed it so much, because I thought the community was really nice.” 

Leslie also explained that her appointment as LSU Activities Commissioner in her junior year marked a point of growth for her time in the club. 

“When I won Activities Commissioner, it showed me how far I came,” Leslie said. “It made me really happy because all the effort and sleepless nights finally paid off. I’m just super proud to represent all different sorts of groups on campus.”

To learn more about LSU, visit @lahs.lsu on Instagram or join their weekly meetings held on Wednesdays in room U210.