My background informs my teaching and scholarship in several ways. As someone with a Ph.D. in colonial Latin American history, I bring a deep understanding of the historical context and complexities of Latin American societies, cultures, and colonial legacies to my teaching and research. My expertise in colonial Latin American history allows me to offer unique insights into the socio-political, economic, and cultural dynamics of the region, enriching classroom discussions and scholarly analyses.Growing up in a lower-middle-income household and being the first person in my family to attain a bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D. degrees has instilled in me a strong sense of resilience, determination, and empathy. These qualities shape my approach to teaching, as I strive to create inclusive and supportive learning environments where all students feel valued and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.My travels throughout Latin America have broadened my perspective and enriched my understanding of diverse cultures, languages, and histories. This multicultural background informs my teaching by fostering a global outlook and encouraging critical engagement with different worldviews and perspectives.Overall, my diverse background informs my teaching and scholarship by enriching the depth and breadth of my insights, fostering empathy and inclusivity, and promoting interdisciplinary approaches to knowledge production and dissemination.