International RSO
The Latin American Student Association (LASA) is a registered student organization at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. It serves as a vital community space open to all enrolled undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate students, as well as faculty and staff who are in good standing with the institution.
To provide opportunities for members to learn, embrace, and share their Latin heritage with an emphasis on the Latin community, while assisting the needs of both new and established Latin American students by fostering service and solidarity.
To cultivate strong mutual interests and lasting friendships among Latin American, American, and international students, as well as the local community, through an engaging program of inclusive, non-discriminatory, and accessible activities.
Offer an organized program of social, educational, athletic, and civic activities; maintain a structured cultural event calendar; conduct regular and executive meetings to govern institutional affairs; and ensure strict compliance with university regulations and non-discrimination policies while providing necessary reasonable accommodations.
Hugo is a graduate student from Madrid, Spain, studying Linguistics and TESOL. He enjoys learning new languages, reading and writing poetry, dancing with friends, playing video games, and listening to multilingual music. Passionate about cultural connections, he values learning from people around the world. He is first-generation scholar.
Email: hugo.vazquezlebron@siu.edu
Melissa is a TESOL graduate student from Bucaramanga, Colombia, who enjoys exploring art, culture, and new experiences. She loves visiting museums, traveling, walking, and spending time with her dog. Creative and curious, she enjoys painting, crocheting, drawing, and cooking while continuously learning new things every single day.
Andrea is a graduate student in Linguistics and TESOL from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, with a passion for language education, cultural exchange, and lifelong learning. She enjoys traveling, dancing, exploring different cuisines, and spending time with family and pets. A certified Zumba instructor, she values kindness, curiosity, and creating inclusive, engaging communities.
Roxana is a TESOL graduate student from Chiclayo, Peru, and a 2025 Fulbright Scholar. With experience teaching English and French, she is passionate about language education and cultural exchange. She enjoys traveling, learning about new cultures and languages, reading, singing karaoke with friends, and cooking traditional Peruvian food and desserts.
Kenneth is a Linguistics and TESOL student from Villa de San Antonio, Honduras, with a passion for languages and intercultural communication. He enjoys hiking, dancing, traveling, cooking, and trying new foods. Always eager to explore new places and experiences, he values meaningful connections and is constantly planning his next adventure.
Email: kenneth.suazobonilla@siu.edu
