Cristina E. Garcia
Commencement: Fall 2014, Ceremony 7
Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Women’s and Gender Studies, Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies, and Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology/Sociology
Graduate of: School of International and Public Affairs, College of Arts and Sciences
Miami native Cristina E. Garcia wants to change the world by facilitating dialogues that educate, connect and empower communities. To help her reach her goal, she majored in religious studies, sociology and women’s and gender studies at FIU; and earned a certificate in Middle Eastern and Central Asian studies and a certificate in professional and public writing.
Cristina found inspiration for her work at FIU when in a class she learned about the perception of Muslims in post 9/11 America. Wanting to help, she interned for South Florida Interfaith Worker Justice where she connected with religious organizations to spread awareness about work and pay inequalities. This opportunity drove her to learn about graphic design and publishing, which eventually led her to join the staff at the university’s student newspaper, The Beacon. Working at the paper gave Cristina a platform to connect her passions, educate the community, publish articles and give back to the university.
She credits professors Aisha Musa, Julie Wade and Benjamin Lauren among many others in helping her define her work. After graduation, she will pursue creative nonfiction writing and a career in publishing.