MARISOL MENDEZ

Hometown: Trion, Georgia
School: Kennesaw State University
Major: International Affairs & Geography

Marisol Mendez was born and raised in the small town of Trion, Georgia. By her parents who immigrated to the United States from Guatemala at the ages of 17 and 19. She is the first person in her family to go to college and has done her best to be a good example for her younger siblings and cousins. Her family is Mam, an indigenous group in Guatemala, and she understands the importance of education and how it can help her community. Marisol served as a Distinguished UN-SDG Ambassador which allowed her to research on how to address the racial disparities that arise in urbanization.

Marisol is currently a third-year student majoring in International Affairs and Geography at Kennesaw State University. Upon graduation, Marisol plans to obtain her master’s in urban planning and public policy with an emphasis on environmental justice. Her ultimate career goal is to work for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to focus on reducing poverty and inequality while also fighting against climate change.

As a CHCI Intern, Marisol hopes to gain a better understanding of public policy and how to support her community during difficult times.