Leading with Purpose: Alejandra Colon's Journey of Growth and Advocacy

Woman with long dark hair wearing a dress and graduation regalia, smiling at camera
I am constantly reminded of our collective desire as Cal Bears to make positive changes in our society and do it in a way that uplifts those around us.
Alejandra Colon '18
Graduate looking back over her shoulder, with the university library in the background
October 17, 2024

L&S Alum Spotlight: Alejandra Colon '18

Major(s): Rhetoric and Legal Studies

Alejandra Colon, a proud Latina and 2018 graduate of UC Berkeley, has continued to honor her heritage through her work and community involvement. She remains an active member of the UC Berkeley Chicanx Latinx Alumni Association, and has served on the executive boards of both the Orange County and Los Angeles chapters. 

In 2024, Alejandra has embraced a year of growth, self-reflection, and deep commitment to work that aligns with her personal journey. "I'm always eager to learn and am constantly thinking about how we can work together to create a more just and compassionate society," she shared. "Right now, I'm focused on three key themes: consistency, intentionality, and getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. I'm approaching these in a way that's true to my path, working to become a stronger version of myself so I can better serve my community and continue to be the fierce advocate I aspire to be."

What have you been up to since graduation and how did your experience at Berkeley influence your journey? 

I am a part of organizations such as LEAP and LatinoJustice's Next Generation Líderes program, which provide me the honor of learning from champions of civil and human rights. LatinoJustice is committed to "transform harmful systems, empower our communities, fight for racial justice, and grow the next generation of líderes." I feel privileged to have their guidance, support, and mentorship.

There are many factors that led me to where I am today, and a huge portion of this has been due to my village -- the many people who have come into my life and believed in me, which has been a blessing. The Berkeley community is a part of this, first as a student and now as an alum. I have so many Cal Bears helping guide me in this phase of my life. 

I am constantly reminded of our collective desire as Cal Bears to make positive changes in our society and do it in a way that uplifts those around us. I truly feel that Cal Bears understand that we cannot just be ambitious for ourselves, but we must be ambitious for our communities, and do so in a way that honors the humanity of those around us.

Group of people holding a banner: UC Berkeley Chicano Latino Alumni Association - Cal

What has been a favorite or memorable moment in your journey so far?

I recently went to an escape room with two of my closest friends, who are also Cal Bears. We were wizards on a mission to find a stolen wand, and it was such an amazing experience to work together, have fun, and engage in solving puzzles. At the end we were successful in finding the wand and returning it to our headmaster. It was memorable to know that the three of us succeeded in the quest, and did it in a way where we amplified our strengths and honored inclusivity. We later learned we had participated in an "advanced" escape room that typically required six people to complete the mission successfully. This was a reminder to me that anything is achievable with the right team, tools, and environment.

Can you share a challenge that you have had to navigate?

After working in local government, I learned the capabilities our government has in supporting our communities. Simultaneously, I realized there are restrictions, in part due to outdated processes, processes that do not challenge the current norm of how systems can function to better serve our constituents.

We are not bound but rather boundless in our possibilities to create, and that includes within our current structures. We must have people who can see and understand this vision. People who are not afraid to ask questions and who are not afraid to think differently. I've decided to pursue law school to expand my capacity to transform these systems.

What is something that is sustaining and supporting you?

At the moment, returning to dance has been sustaining for me. I started dancing at the tender age of eight and throughout my childhood, adolescence, and even portions of my college life, dance was always a part of me. Once I was deeper into the workforce, I stopped dancing altogether. Fortunately, I was reminded of how important dance is to me, and now I try to dance all the time: when I wake up, when I brush my teeth, when I eat, and even when I am studying for the LSAT!

What is one piece of advice or something you wish you had known as a Berkeley student?

You will have moments where you question your worth, but there will also be moments where you look at your trajectory and acknowledge that you are indeed a powerhouse. On the days where you are struggling, even if in that moment you don’t believe it, remind yourself: “I am worthy. I am ALWAYS worthy”.

On the days when you are struggling, even if in that moment you don’t believe it, remind yourself: 'I am worthy. I am ALWAYS worthy.'
Alejandra Colon '18