Political Science - Transfer to University of California, Irvine (UCI)
Eight years ago, when I was 21, I immigrated to the United States. I didn’t speak English when I first arrived, eager to pursue the professional education I couldn’t obtain in my native Colombia due to limited resources. I had concerns about my accent and whether I’d be able to grasp the language. However, at SMC, I found it easier to speak English because of the many international students on campus. This environment helped me enhance my fluency. I realized that our accents reflect our identities and should be celebrated.
The Adelante Program enriched my time at SMC by connecting me with a supportive community that aided me on my journey. Adelante assisted me in finding scholarships with straightforward application processes, conducted excellent workshops covering various subjects, and provided counselors who were enthusiastic about assisting and guiding me in achieving my goals.
Now, after eight years of relentless effort, I’m on the brink of a new chapter — transferring to a university with a full ride. My journey speaks to the potential within all of us to triumph over obstacles.
Let our accents be harmonious reflections of our identities. As I move forward, my past is a testament to perseverance and proof that uncertain beginnings can lead to triumphant futures.