After graduating high school, I moved in with my sister in North Carolina. I began a gap year working retail and volunteering at a local nursing home. Though I was busy working, traveling and volunteering, I knew I wanted more – to continue learning. After I worked for a year to save money for school, I began my education at Durham Technical Community College. I am tremendously glad that I chose to start at a community college. Not only have I saved money while completing my Associate Degree in science, I also received a quality education, gained work experience and made new friends.

Balancing three part-time jobs, maintaining a 4.0 GPA as a full-time student, and participating in clubs was challenging, but it enriched my school experiences. My professors became my mentors, and Amigos Unidos (Spanish Club) became a part of my life. Overall, Durham Tech and the instructors pushed me to my limits each semester; however, I survived as a stronger and more prepared student. I look forward to my future work in the field of biology knowing my foundations began with an amazing school.