From the president
Cadet Ariana Zapata, a junior at The Citadel, exemplifies principled leadership and civic responsibility through her commitment to immigration justice and inclusive community engagement. As a double major in Criminal Justice and Spanish, Ariana leverages her academic focus and bilingual skills to serve marginalized communities—locally, nationally, and abroad. She has volunteered over 120 hours, including 88 hours with Dana Law Firm, aiding immigrants navigating complex legal systems.
A first-generation college student, Ariana leads with empathy and purpose. She serves as Secretary of the Company Community Engagement Council, coordinates campus-wide service initiatives, mentors high school students through the Student Dreamer Alliance, and teaches English virtually to underserved students in Colombia. As the 4th Battalion Recruiting Officer for 450+ cadets and captain of the women’s cheer team, Ariana balances academics, leadership, and service with grace and resilience.
Ariana approaches social issues at their root, recognizing systemic barriers to legal access and language equity. She is dedicated to developing innovative, collaborative solutions—demonstrating her potential as a transformative civic leader. Ariana embodies the values of the Newman Civic Fellowship and is poised to use this opportunity to deepen her impact and inspire her peers.
Personal Statement
As a first-generation college student, I am passionate about serving communities impacted by injustice. Every week, I teach English via Zoom to young girls in Chocó, Colombia, a region deeply affected by poverty and armed conflict. One of my students, Isabella, once shared that learning English made her feel “visible” for the first time. Her words reminded me that education is not just a tool, but a lifeline. Many of these girls face social and economic barriers that limit their futures. Through consistent mentorship and language instruction, I strive to help them access broader opportunities and break generational cycles of inequality.
At The Citadel, I study Criminal Justice and Psychology while also interning at an immigration law firm, where I witness firsthand how policy impacts the lives of those seeking justice and safety. I am also a proud mentor through Student Dreamers Alliance mentor-mentee program, supporting high school students in navigating academic and personal challenges. My work, on campus and beyond, focuses on addressing root causes of inequality through education, advocacy, and human connection. I believe real change requires both compassion and action, and I am committed to building collaborative strategies that uplift voices and create a long-term impact.