Women’s History Month: HerStory in the Making

Did you bring a precious object from your home country? If so, what is it, and why is it meaningful to you?

I bring my Mate with me because, as an Argentinian, Mate represents family, friendship, and conversation.  So, even if I’m alone, your Mate is my best ally.

What challenges have you faced as an immigrant student, and how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I faced as an immigrant student was the fear of failing. But once I realized that there are many resources at LAGCC that can help me achieve success, this fear just vanished. I got rid  of my shame and started to looking for on-campus job. Then, I engaged with the initiatives of La Casa de las Americas to find support and networking opportunities.

Can you share a moment in your journey that made you feel proud of yourself and your achievements?

I am not a native English speaker. I used to take British English classes when I was teenager just for fun. So, coming here with  the English that I learned in my after-school program was a big deal.  I’m still learning English, but I feel proud of not being ashamed of making mistakes. I don’t mind if  I mispronounce a word because I know people understand me, and I can communicate and express myself, even if I make mistakes.

How has your cultural background influenced your education and personal growth?

As Argentinian, as a Latin American, I believe that there is no chance of giving up. My family has always trusted me, and I truly believe that we can do whatever we set our minds to.  My parents always insisted that going to college is not only a tool to find a better job, but also a tool to enrich your mind, to discover a new world, gain different points of view, and a tool to change the world and fight our rights as individuals and as a community.

What message would you share with other immigrant women students who may be facing similar experiences?

Don’t be ashamed. Engaged in any club or cultural space, this places can provide you with the support you need. I know that sometimes it feels like there’s only darkness,  but you just need to express your self and share your thoughts. Because when you communicate what you feel or what is struggling you, most of the time you can find the light at the end of the tunnel.

Did you bring a precious object from your home country? If so, what is it, and why is it meaningful to you?

From my country, I brought an image of our protector Virgin, which we call “Virgencita” in Spanish. My country follows the Catholic religion, and I was raised in it. In moments of anxiety or nostalgia, I look at my Virgencita, pray, and feel more comforted.

What challenges have you faced as an immigrant student, and how have you overcome them?

My biggest challenge as an immigrant student was enrolling in college without knowing how to speak English. It was stressful for me to think that I might fail my classes, not due to a lack of knowledge, but because I didn’t understand the language. ESL099 definitely helped me a lot, and although I feel that I still have much to learn, I am happy with the fluency I have achieved so far.

Can you share a moment in your journey that made you feel proud of yourself and your achievements?

One of the moments in my journey when I felt most proud was when I was accepted into the RN program. I knew the competition was tough due to the number of applicants, and LaGuardia has the best nursing program in New York City. I remember crying with excitement when I received my acceptance letter. Although I am only in my second semester of the program, it is a dream come true every time I attend my classes.

How has your cultural background influenced your education and personal growth?

My cultural background has been the best foundation for my success, both in my personal life and in college. The women in my family, especially my mom and my sister, are strong, disciplined, and hardworking. Discipline has taught me that anything can be achieved if you are organized—I can work full-time, study full-time, and take care of my family as long as I do everything within a well-structured schedule.

What message would you share with other immigrant women students who may be facing similar experiences?

I am a mother of a toddler and the only immigrant in my family. I know that immigration is tough, especially when you don’t have a support system, but with discipline, anything is possible. Women we are strong and determined. If I made it, you will too!

Did you bring a precious object from your home country? If so, what is it, and why is it meaningful to you?

I brought photos of my family, a dinosaur keychain that is identical to the one my brother has, and some hair from my dog that died a few days before I emigrated.

These items represent my past and my origin. They connect me to the important people I left behind in my country.

What challenges have you faced as an immigrant student, and how have you overcome them?

Initially, I had to learn about the U.S. education system, which is very different than the one in my country.

When I first arrived, I was amazed by the multiculturalism in the U.S. Now, I have adapted to the cultural differences and enjoy learning about other cultures. I’m really thankful for how safe and comfortable I feel here.

Can you share a moment in your journey that made you feel proud of yourself and your achievements?

When I accomplished things that I could not do in my country and felt myself adapting to the city and the school, I felt proud.

How has your cultural background influenced your education and personal growth?

My cultural background has taught me to always strive to do my best. I also prioritize ensuring my safety, even when I know the risk is minimal.

What message would you share with other immigrant women students who may be facing similar experiences?

Migration is an act of courage; it forces you to know yourself better. Everyone experiences it differently and adapts to a new country in their own way. Don’t compare yourself and enjoy the process.