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CG ShopBeing Latina is not easy. My Inspiration |
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| Written by CG Girl |
| Friday, 09 October 2009 21:09 |
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My Inspiration Written By Perlita Ortega When asked who has inspired me the most throughout my life and educational career, I can only think of one woman: mi mama. Finishing high school after arriving only three years earlier from Mexico to the United States, my mother was the first and only one out of ten to graduate from high school. Growing up, mi mama always reminded me of what she would have done if she continued her education: “A teacher, a nurse, maybe even a chemist.” With this in mind at a young age, I decided that I too would be the exception and be a “first” in mi familia—I wanted to become the first college graduate. With no regrets, I took hold of all the educational opportunities that life had afforded me. Now, in about six short weeks, I will be receiving the very first college degree given to a Navarro woman. We all know being Latina is not easy. We are stigmatized with teen-aged pregnancy and low paying jobs. Even more, Latinas coming from traditional households are not expected to have an advanced education. Lucky for me, I had a role model who always encouraged me to reach beyond stereotypes and strive for anything I wanted. Mi mama encouraged me that no dream was impossible—no star too far. Once in college, I always remembered the encouragement I received from mi mama and how fortunate I was to have such a strong and motivated woman in my life. And yet, a very important question occurred to me: how can I do the same for my fellow Latinas? For the past three years, I have been a dedicated mentor to middle school girls in Lenox, a small high-risk community in Los Angeles. I spend time with these girls to demonstrate to them that a college education is possible—even for those who may feel discouraged by the struggles of being a young Latina. It is important to understand that the opportunities are available for those willing to work hard and break through typical stereotypes for Latin women. We can help to inspire others. Let’s work together to serve as role models to our fellow Latinas. |
