About

Alessandra Gonzalez is a Cuban American poet, educator, and communications specialist passionate about storytelling, community-building, and creative expression. Currently pursuing her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (Poetry) at the University of Central Florida, she serves as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, designing and leading undergraduate creative writing courses that foster both craft and confidence. Alessandra is deeply committed to educational access, cultural storytelling, and service leadership. 

She dedicates her time at UCF to perfecting both her creative craft and critical eye, elevating others' work alongside her own. She serves as a literary submissions reviewer for The Florida Review, where she engages closely with contemporary literature and emerging voices. 

A proud alumna of Florida International University, Alessandra earned her Bachelor's degree in English Writing and Rhetoric, where she developed the long-term goal of teaching English at the collegiate level. Here is also where she began to develop her poetic voice.

Alessandra's poetry blends lyrical language with vivid imagery, often exploring the intersections of family, memory, cultural identity, and belonging. Her work draws inspiration from personal and collective histories, weaving small, everyday moments into broader reflections on heritage and human connection. She aims to capture the emotional weight carried through generations. Through her work both writing and teaching, she hopes to help shape the writers of the next generation by fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a love of language. 

Beyond the classroom, Alessandra contributes to the public affairs efforts of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, writing forThe Navigator and supporting mission-driven outreach. Inspired by her experience serving as a K-12 substitute teacher, Alessandra is pioneering the Young Voices Club, a developing monthly literacy event for the benefit of young children. She aims to nurture confidence and creativity among Miami's youth. 

Through every role she undertakes -- as a poet, teacher, editor, or mentor -- Alessandra is guided by a deep belief in the power of words to build bridges between people, generations, and communities. She looks forward to continuing her work at the intersections of education, literature, and service.