Mexican-born Dulce Gallo-Blanco ’17 is the first in her family to attend college. A resident of Central New York by way of Atlanta, Ga., she is thrilled to be an undergraduate in the College of Arts and Sciences. Already, the sophomore is making her presence known on campus—proof that one doesn’t need to declare a major to reap the benefits of a national research institution.

The College’s Laura Bulman recently sat down with the Syracuse University Posse Scholar to find out what led her to Syracuse University:

1. You were born in Acapulco and then later moved to Atlanta. How did you wind up in Central New York?

Before Syracuse University, I always dreamt of being the first person in my family to attend college. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my parents and extended family members, my high school teachers and guidance counselors, and all the other people who believed in me, unconditionally. Thanks to them, I’m able to live out this dream.

2. You came here through the Posse program, right?

I was selected among a thousand applicants in Atlanta to be part of Syracuse University’s second Posse cohort. [Founded in 1989, Posse is a college access and youth leadership development program with sites in Atlanta and eight other major cities.] The College’s curriculum was also an important part of my college decision-making process—that and being asked to join The Renée Crown University Honors Program. And all the school spirit. They made my decision to attend Syracuse University a little less complicated.

3. What do you like most about Syracuse University?

The remarkable Honors Program. I came across some very outgoing people during my first year at Syracuse University. They were in the Honors Program and challenged me to grow, personally and academically. The professors in the program are some of the most intellectually challenging I’ve encountered. They’ve forced me to consider things from multiple angles and to think outside my comfort zone.

4. How do you spend your free time?

I love volunteering at La Casita Culture Center, of which I’m a board member; reading in the Panasci Lounge in the Schine Student Center or on the Shaw Quad, when it’s warm out; or attending workshops on campus.

I’m the philanthropy chair of Latino Undergraduates Creating History in America [La LUCHA]; and co-chair of Syracuse First, which helps first-generation students adjust to life at Syracuse University. I’m also a member of the College’s Dean’s Team.

5. Do you ever get off campus?

Certainly. I have shopped at Destiny USA, volunteered at Thornden Park, explored Armory Square, eaten at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, gone apple picking in the fall, and taken random trips to New York City.

6. What’s your long-term goal?

To leave Syracuse University 10 times wiser and happier than when I arrived here.

7. How is Syracuse University helping you achieve your dreams?

Being here has changed my life in so many ways. I’ve been given many academic opportunities, which have expanded my knowledge and network [of friends and colleagues]. Also, I’ve met so many amazing people to whom I can relate and from whom I’ve learned much. They’ve made a huge difference in my college experience.   

8. Words to live by?

The late B.E. Mays [president of Morehouse College] said: “Every man and woman is born into the world to do something unique and something distinctive, and, if he or she does not do it, it will never be done.”