As the popular dance troupe of Fuerza Latina, Fuego Intenso knows how to bring the heat. Members of the group take pride in how they exemplify cultural diversity through their dazzling performances. In addition to wowing audiences with their energetic moves, the performers also command attention in the classroom.
It comes as no surprise learn the group knows their way around a library just as well as a dancefloor. We caught up with a few members of the Fuego Intenso e-board to see just how they like to use the University Libraries.
Senior Katherine Alvarez, junior Jaylin Severino, and sophomore Gabriel Lopez took time out of their busy schedules to answer a few questions for our readers.
Fuego Intenso
How do you like to use the University Libraries?
Katherine: I enjoy using University Libraries to explore scholarly articles for my research essays and projects. I use the search filters to find specific articles, books, movies, or websites.
Jaylin: The University Libraries provide a peaceful, concentrated environment for me to study, finish assignments, and access important materials including books, scholarly journals, and research databases. It's also a fantastic location for group projects, as study rooms are accessible. I am able to remain active and involved in the academic community because of the Libraries' supportive environment.
Gabriel: The University Libraries give me a place to peacefully do my homework and study on a daily basis. From the Dewey Library on the Downtown Campus to both of the uptown libraries, I can find a place to study with a group or by myself. The Libraries always provide me with what I need to succeed. The interlibrary loan system provides me with books that I need for classes and for my own use, and the online system makes it easy to request these books whenever needed.
In what ways have the University Libraries contributed to your success as students?
Katherine: The University Libraries have improved my writing skills, particularly in my psychology classes, which require extensive writing. My essays have benefited from the resources available, especially when using the APA style.
Jaylin: My performance as a student has been greatly aided by the University Libraries, which offer dependable academic resources, a calm setting for concentrated study, and supportive personnel who assist with research. In order to help me succeed in my schoolwork and research projects, they have also provided technology, such as computers and printing services, as well as collaborative areas.
Gabriel: The University Libraries have greatly contributed to my success throughout my time here at UAlbany. The tutoring in the University Library has greatly helped me in classes that I struggle with, and the tutors are friendly and helpful with the material. Having a place to study has helped me focus and put more time and energy into my academics.
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How does practicing and performing help you as a student?
Katherine: Engaging in both practicing and performing has contributed to my development as a student. These activities have taught me the importance of prioritizing my responsibilities and managing my time effectively. Through my commitment to dance, I have learned to balance various aspects of my life, including work, academics, and my passion for dance. This experience has made me more organized, I feel more in control of my schedule, and better prepared to meet the challenges of being a student.
Jaylin: I benefit as a student from practicing and performing because it helps me develop self-discipline, focus, and tenacity. They taught me how to accept criticism and adjust while also improving my critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. These encounters foster perseverance and confidence, two qualities that are critical for success in the classroom.
Gabriel: Practicing and performing for Fuego Intenso gives me an outlet to relax and enjoy myself after a long day of classes and studying. Fuego is my time to focus on something I enjoy so that I can keep my mind off academics and be a better student later. The discipline and time it takes to practice and perform makes me a better person because I have to manage my time correctly. The problems we face as a team also makes us more resilient in future situations which transfers over to my academic life.