It’s Never Too Late to go to College
This is part 2 of Angela Martinez' story. Earlier this week, we published her 10 tips to succeed in community college, and now she shares her experience and advice as a non-traditional student at a 4 year university. She recently joined the GlobalMindED team as Assistant Conference Director. Here is her story:
As a first-generation, non-traditional, Latina single mother of two, it was hard for me to get through school. I had dropped out when I was in tenth grade and received my G.E.D right before my first daughter was born. I struggled working multiple dead-end jobs just to get by, but had no promising future. It wasn’t until I gave birth to my second daughter to finally realize I needed to do something different with my life, because what I was doing was not working. I was homeless and living with my two young children on a bunk bed in my grandmother’s spare bedroom. That was when I decided to go back to school to get an education to give my kids the life they deserve.
I had been out of school for more that fifteen years and was never a very good student. I was scared and nervous to go back because I did not think I was smart enough or had what it takes to graduate college. But now after seven long and hard years, I can honestly say returning to school was by far the best decision I have ever made. After all the late nights studying for exams and early morning presentations with groups, I am proud to say I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Event and Meeting Management in May 2022, from Metropolitan State University (MSU) with a 4.0 G.P.A.
I have gained so many real-life experiences and have learned so many valuable lessons during my time in school and would love to share a few things I have picked up in my seven years as a college student.
#1. GET INVOLVED ON CAMPUS – There are so many fun and exciting ways to get connected to student organizations, associations, and clubs. Being involved in extracurricular activities will not only give you a chance to meet new people, but it will also give your college experience extra meaning and purpose. During my time as a student I applied for as many student organizations that would accept me. Because of all my involvement on campus, I created lifelong bonds with other students and made so many lasting memories that I will forever cherish.
#2. APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS - We all know how expensive college tuition, books, and school supplies cost, so why not save some $$$ and apply for funding? Take it from me, because of all my involvement on campus, I graduated debt-free and did not have to pay one penny for my education (all seven years) because of all the scholarships I have earned. There are many scholarships you can apply for, and millions of dollars goes unused every year because people simply do not apply. I am not saying it is easy to earn a scholarship, but it is so worth it to at least try. Scholarships are financial aid that you don't have to pay back and can help decrease or eliminate the out school loans. You will never know how much money you can save with scholarships if you never take the time to apply.
#3. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE/UPLIFTING LEADERS – When we surround ourselves with other like-minded thought leaders, we are destined for greatness. Having a supportive mentor or advisor that you look up to and can turn to makes a huge difference. I have experienced first-hand what having a positive mentor can do. When I graduated college in May, I was unsure of where I was headed until my mentor, who I love and trust dearly, encouraged me to come support her at the 2022 GlobalMindED conference. This is where I met Carol Carter and was offered a position to work for her. Without the invite from my mentor, I may have never had this opportunity to be part of the GlobalMindED team.
#4. KNOW YOUR WORTH & BELIEVE IN YOURSELF – Please drop the “Imposter Syndrome” where you believe you do not deserve to be where you are. We all come from different backgrounds and upbringings, and no one Is perfect. We are all just trying to make it in life and as long as you give it your best, and don’t give up, that’s all that matters. Comparison is the killer of joy so do not compare yourself to anyone. Do not listen to the “Negative Nancy’s” in life, telling you what you can or can’t do. And always make sure to give yourself credit and be proud of the things you have already accomplished. Take pride in all that you do, and you will go far in life.
#5. ENJOY THE RIDE – Focus on the journey, not the destination. Before you know it, your school days will be behind you, and you will be reminiscing about your college experience. Take time to savor and appreciate all the highs and lows you will go through as a college student. Remember to have fun (but not too much) and handle your responsibilities. College can be the best time of your life if you allow it to be. This is your time to learn about what you want out of life and is the place to gain the skills and knowledge you will need to have a bright and successful future.
Coming back to school as an older student has taught me it is never too late to pursue your dreams. It doesn’t matter how old you are as long as you believe in yourself and are willing to put in the work and effort to make a positive change.
