As a first-generation student who was starting college fresh out of COVID-19 lockdown, Kevin Porcayo admits he was a little nervous. “We hadn’t had face-to-face conversations for a while, and it was new people and a new environment,” he said. Additionally, coming from northern Chicago, he was five hours from Saint Mary’s Winona Campus, so returning home frequently wasn’t an option.
Now a senior, Porcayo learned how to make the most of his college experience. He’s triple majoring in chemistry, Spanish, and secondary education; participating in multiple clubs and activities; and has studied abroad.
Porcayo wants to teach chemistry to high school sophomores and juniors. Part way through his freshman year he decided he wanted to teach Spanish as well.
This past summer, he also traveled to Seville, Spain, as part of a study abroad program to further hone his Spanish dialects. “The architecture was beautiful,” he said. “I would encourage students to study abroad to broaden their horizons and just to have that experience.”
In general, Porcayo has tried to experience campus life to the fullest while balancing his studies. He’s involved in the D&D Club, Anime and Cartoon Club, and serves as president of Zeta Delta (the First Generation honor society). He also goes to many events that the Student Activities Committee (SAC) puts on like Cardinal Fest, Plazapalooza, and Bingo.
He advises new students, “Definitely reach out and try different clubs you’re interested in. Meet new people. Have fun. Put yourself out there; that’s how you’ll find your friend groups. It’s been a great experience at Saint Mary’s. I’ve made lifelong friends here.”
