Brianna Restrepo
Brianna Restrepo is a dedicated and ambitious student at Emmanuel College (Boston), pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a minor in Communications. Originally from a low-income community outside Boston, Brianna has consistently demonstrated resilience, balancing her academic pursuits with professional roles in hospitality and legal support. Her experiences as a Guest Services Specialist at Comfort Inn and Suites and as an Immigration Paralegal Assistant at the Law Office of Macias & Greenstein have honed her interpersonal, problem-solving, and bilingual communication skills, preparing her for a future career in public relations and strategic communications.
Passionate about community engagement, Brianna’s commitment to service was recognized through the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. She is an emerging voice in cultural storytelling, using her writing to share personal narratives about growing up as a Latina within Colombian and broader Latino culture. Her work explores family dynamics, identity, and the impact of criminal justice involvement on communities, offering an authentic perspective that resonates with others navigating similar experiences. Through blogging and social media, she creates spaces for dialogue and empowerment, emphasizing that personal challenges can be a source of growth and connection.
Brianna’s professional journey is complemented by her selection for the prestigious Lex Fellowship Program in Milan, a study abroad opportunity that supports personal and academic development for students interested in law and advocacy. She is actively building her platform as a writer and blogger, publishing diary-style essays and poetry that reflect her lived experiences, while seeking internships with organizations such as Sociedad Latina in Boston to further develop her skills in communications, public relations, and community engagement. Brianna’s dedication to storytelling, advocacy, and cross-cultural understanding positions her as a rising professional ready to make meaningful contributions to her community and the field of public relations.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to my mother. Growing up without a consistent father figure—due to my father being in and out of incarceration—my mom became my primary support system. She was especially pivotal during my teenage years, a time when I navigated various mental health challenges. Those experiences have shaped who I am today, and through them, I’ve learned to manage and embrace my mental health rather than suppress it. Her unwavering support and example have been central to the person I’ve become and the drive I bring to my work and life.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is not to take everything personally. College—and the early stages of your career—are a time to truly get to know yourself. You’ll face rejections from internships, jobs, or opportunities, and that’s normal; it doesn’t reflect your value or potential. Focus on your strengths and establish a clear niche—identify what you excel at and pursue opportunities that recognize and value those abilities. Not every company will see your potential, and that’s okay; the right opportunities will align with your unique skills. Be willing to try new things, but always stay grounded in what you bring to the table.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are family resilience and support, cultural advocacy, community service, and environmental stewardship. I prioritize nurturing strong family bonds, championing cultural awareness, and giving back through volunteering and donations. Additionally, I am committed to caring for our environment, such as participating in local river cleanups, because I believe that stewardship of our community and surroundings is integral to creating lasting impact.
Locations
The Vermillion Club
Revere, MA 02151