Hi I’m Valeria Huerta!

I’m a first year Musical Theatre student at Falmouth University and I organized a Day of the Dead event on november 6th. Making the Day of the Dead altar was such a wonderful experience for me. I started this project with the idea of bringing a little bit of Mexican culture and tradition to both Falmouth and Exeter University and feel close to my country, especially during Day of the Dead.

As an international student living in the UK, it can be difficult being so far away from home, so I felt that organizing an event like this would be a great opportunity for internationals to feel seen and also a way to connect and honor their loved ones who have passed. I placed the altar in the Exchange Building (right in front of the career zone) so a lot of people stopped by to check it out and try some Mexican candy I bought with the help of the SU. I believe more than 30 people attended and also contributed with pictures of their loved ones to place on the altar. It was wonderful to see people getting involved in this tradition and allowing us to place some of their loved ones' belongings in the altar as well. 

We even had a little dance session right in the end where one of my friends who helped me set up and organize the event, and I taught a famous Mexican dance we usually do at parties.  

I’m so grateful for the SU’s support with my idea to show one of Mexico’s most beautiful traditions and to all of the people that helped me make this possible. Dani, Francesco, Henry, Valeria and Ana, thank you for helping me with all the set up and keeping me company, you guys are amazing! 

Quotes from students that attended the event

“Great idea to see a little bit of mexican culture” 

“Very touching”  

Valeria Huerta Mendez, Musical Theatre BA first year student - Falmouth University