The former Adams House resident says he also plans to focus on issues that are of specific concern to Cambridge residents. He says he is committed to maintaining Metropolitian District Commission parks along the Charles River and to making Memorial Drive safer for pedestrians by adding crosswalks.

Barrios says the most important of all legislative concerns is his duty to his constituents.

"Fixing potholes and fire hydrants are a major part of my job, too," he says.

In short, he says, "My goal is to be the most effective representative for the district."

Barrios says he is the first openly gay man elected to the House as a non-incumbent and one of three first-term Latinos this year. Before this election, only one Latino had ever served in the House, and his last term ended in 1992.

Barrios credits the activism of the gay community, which he estimates makes up about 15 to 20 percent of the voters in the district, for much of his support.

"[My homosexuality] informs my agenda," he says.

"It is important that we recognize the obligations of society to allow all citizens to participate fully in the political process," he says.

In addition, Barrios says he hopes to be "a strong voice for people of color."

The significance of his race in the election, Barrios says, does not reflect a change in demographics--only about 5 percent of Cantabrigians are Hispanic.

"The change, if any, is not from demographics but shows the ability of Hispanics to run a viable campaign," he says.

Barrios, whose district covers South and East Cambridge, along with several River Houses, says he will certainly encounter issues that concern Harvard.

Despite the fact that Harvard has not contacted him yet (as MIT has) about discussing various concerns and issues of interest, Barrios says he is eager to cultivate more ties between the University and state government.

"I view Harvard as an opportunity for Cambridge and the state for resources. I have been involved with [Harvard] unions and students, and I can see that this is an opportunity to build a strong relationship with the community," he says.

As for his long-term plans, Barrios says he is not sure how long he will serve as representative.

"I may hate the State House and be there for only two years, or I may love it and stay there for the rest of my life," he says.

He declined to comment as to whether he had ambitions that might lead him to Washington, D.C.