Aliento Features: Nikolas Gonzalez
My name is Nikolas Gonzalez, and I am a freshman at Arizona State University studying Construction Management and Technology. I also like music, 3D art, and CNC machining for 3D art and engineering. Coming from a family of immigrants, I saw the importance of work ethic and compassion, which gave me a foundation for civic engagement through Aliento’s fellowship.
When I started high school, I was searching for a purpose and direction, what I wanted to be involved in, and who I wanted to be involved with. These questions created a barrier and led to a lack of motivation, leaving me increasingly indecisive. Eventually, a teacher offered me the opportunity to join the Brophy Advocacy Club, which promoted civic engagement and education on issues affecting Arizona. There, I met new friends who shared common interests and stories similar to mine.
One of them was Daniel Martinez Romero, an Aliento fellow alum. We traveled together to Washington, D.C., for the Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice, a convention that brings together Jesuit schools and universities from across the country to advocate on issues of immigration and ecological justice. Daniel gave a speech on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, telling the story of his father and the deep impact immigration policy had on his life. His emotion and vulnerability made me reflect on my own role in advocacy. I realized that with the privilege that I have as a U.S. Citizen, I can no longer stand idly by as my friends and family are being emotionally and physically oppressed. Afterward, he introduced me to Aliento, and I knew I was in the right place.
Since starting in 2022 with the Prop. 308 Campaign, I stayed involved throughout high school, attending E-Days and other campaigns. Now, I carry that involvement into college as a fellow and by organizing students on campus. Working with our club’s leadership team and other fellows, we planned our events and organized students. Together, we organized our delegation to Education Day and organized 80 students this year. We also worked together on events, including our documentary screening of American Dreamers, followed by a panel with students and professors featured in the film, attended by 120 students who learned more about Dreamers’ stories. What made these events meaningful wasn’t the attendance numbers, but realizing it wouldn’t have been possible without our team. Even when I struggled with balancing school and time management, my team kept me accountable and helped me overcome these challenges.
The fellowship has been transformative as I developed leadership skills, broadened my understanding of policy, and made connections throughout Aliento's extensive community. The work can feel overwhelming, but it builds character and shows others what you are capable of and willing to do for our immigrant community.
Looking back, I almost didn't apply. I doubted whether I had the time or experience, thinking I'd have enough on my plate as a STEM freshman at ASU, barely knowing anyone. I was wrong. This fellowship kick-started my college career and showed me that I am part of an amazing community committed to the truth that Dreamers belong here. This is only the beginning; I will continue to work with Aliento throughout college and will join Aliento@ASU’s executive team.
My best advice is that your doubt can easily kill your aspirations. You can talk yourself out of any goal, but doing so means missing the ways achieving it would benefit you and those around you. The fellowship will open many doors for you. It’s important not to doubt yourself and your skills in order to reach those doors before they close. So, don’t be afraid to try new things, make a change, and be yourself.
