Camila Maldonado Franco ’24

Hometown: San Lorenzo, Paraguay

If you had to create a synonym for the word “Smithie,” what would it be?
I would describe it with a phrase in Guarani (my second language) “ava py’aguasu” which translates to “couraged people”. Smithies are not scared to stand up for themselves and those around them. Their py’a (soul) is so guasu (huge) that they are not afraid of fighting for what they want. 

Who gave you the best advice so far about coming to Smith and what was it?
I had a mentor who is also a Smithie. She once told me that Smith was a precious collection of “weirdos” in a good sense. She meant that no matter what you like or where you come from, there is always a place for you here. Most importantly, if there is not a place yet for you here, you get to create it! As a current student, I can totally understand what she said, and I am proud to say that I am part of the collection of weirdos! 

“No matter what you like or where you come from, there is always a place for you here. Most importantly, if there is not a place yet for you here, you get to create it!”

What are you most looking forward to about campus?
I can’t wait for Mountain Day! My first Mountain Day was online, so I did not really get to experience it yet! I would love to pick up some apples and cook something tasty in our beautiful kitchen in Park! 

If you could give a piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Everything happens for a reason and your time is yet to come! Stop comparing yourself to others, your path is unique and you are on the right track. No need to rush! 

What’s something you wish more people knew about you?
I like to be alone! Most of my friends think I am a really social being, which in fact I am! However, I always make sure to have some time to be alone and enjoy things by myself. 

What’s your favorite family tradition?
Christmas! My family always gets together to build the “pesebre” and we always take pictures in front of it! The figures of the pesebre were bought by my family when I was born, so as of now, it is 20 years old already! 

What year would you visit if you had a time machine?
Definitely the 90s. I always enjoyed seeing my mother’s teenager pictures. I wonder what was social life like without social media! 

Name one thing still on your bucket list.
Visit Disney in California! 

Did you get the famous Smith chop? 
Yes, I did, twice! Also dyed it this summer! 

Smithie Snapshots is a new profile series highlighting members of the Smith community, located all over the world.