In light of Brown’s transition to online learning, the U-FLi Center will be sharing narratives from the Class of 2020. We aim to affirm and honor graduating students’ time at Brown. Read about Jasmine Ruiz (she/hers) below:

What does it mean to you to be U-FLi?

To me, being U-FLi means acknowledging our similar experiences and strengths, while also recognizing everything else we bring to the table. We’d be doing a disservice to ourselves and each other if we pretended our U-FLi identities were more salient than or didn’t interact with our other identities. Having said that, I’m thankful for how the U-FLi Center has facilitated a sense of community (particularly in an institution like Brown) & helped me befriend folks who have similar values and interests.

Advice you’d give your first-year self?

Take advantage of shopping period!!!! Stop by more club meetings, even if it’s uncomfortable or scary to meet so many new people (bring a friend – that makes it easier). Be patient with yourself. It’ll take some time before you’re comfortable at Brown, so reach out to your support systems (at home, therapy, roommates) when you feel isolated. Learn about the larger Providence community and get off the hill as much as you can!

Favorite memory at Brown?

Going to Newport with Estefany sophomore year. Going to Boston to see John Mulaney with Marie junior year. Having sleepovers with friends in the dorms. Conversations with friends that go later than you expected them to. Trying the ranch BLT from Blue State for the first time.

Who are you away from Brown/outside of the student identity? 

I’m a daughter and a sister. I’m a photographer. I spend more time than I should on TikTok but haven’t learned one of the dances (yet).