My Bestfriend Guadalupe Hernandez
my bestfriend guadalupe hernandez
BY Evelyn Lopez-Cortez
Guadalupe Hernandez, born and raised in East San Jose, has always connected strongly to her roots, culture, and family. As a first-generation Latina student, she’s learned strength through responsibility and independence. Being the oldest child in an immigrant household shaped her in powerful ways, and those early lessons continue to influence her today.
Q: What’s a moment from your childhood that shaped who you are today?
A: Being the oldest sibling shaped me a lot. I had to take care of my little brothers and be a role model for them. I also had to help my parents with translating things since they didn't speak English. I was always looking out for both my siblings and my parents. That made me grow up quicker than most kids and taught me how to be responsible.
Q: When did you first realize you had to take on more responsibility than others your age?
A: I think I really felt it when I had to stay strong for someone else, even when I didn’t feel okay myself. I would act like I had it together just so my siblings could feel safe or calm. I also noticed that they’d come to me with questions I didn’t even know the answers to, and that made me feel like I had to be “the one” for everyone. I also had to take care of things that other kids didn’t have to worry about, such as being my parents' translator, helping them with paperwork, and thinking about what would happen if something were to happen to them. Most kids don’t have to think about that kind of stuff.
Q: When you think about your younger self, what do you feel most proud of?
A: I’m proud that I made it to college. I’m the first in my family to go to a four-year university, and I figured it all out on my own. There was no one before me to show me how, and it was hard at times, but I kept going. I didn’t give up, and now I’m setting an example for my siblings coming after me.
Q: What kind of role did the community play in your life growing up?
A: My community meant a lot to me. I remember going to La Pulga and the Mexican Heritage Plaza, and being part of celebrations like Cinco de Mayo and Día de los Muertos. We’d hang out at places like La Tropicana or Eastridge; it just felt like home. The people around me always made me feel supported and proud of my culture. I’m grateful I grew up in a place where I felt like I belonged.
Q: What’s something you wish people understood about where you come from?
A: I wish people understood how connected and full of culture our side of town is. It was easier to relate and feel seen on the East Side of San José, especially growing up around other Hispanic families. It’s a small community, but it’s strong. We really support each other, and there’s a lot of love and culture in where we’re from. It’s different when you grow up around people who share your background.