At a VOICE ensemble concert benefiting SLI, alum Alisia (Harrisonburg High School ’17, James Madison University ’21) shared the following about her experiences:
I am excited to share with you all about my SLI experience, but I want you all to know that every student in SLI has an encouraging and unique story. I appreciate you all for allowing me this opportunity to share mine with you tonight.
When I began high school I had a difficult time finding my identity and struggled with knowing what I wanted for my future. My father, who is from Mexico, never had the opportunity to attend college. He has always encouraged me to pursue my education and is my biggest inspiration because of the hard work, sacrifices, and dedication he has shown our family. But growing up, I often wondered if college was even an option for me. I was provided with the opportunity to be part of SLI that allowed me to learn valuable leadership skills, take part in a mentorship program, and receive the support I needed to pursue my education. Through SLI I was able to participate in early college seminars, participate in community service hours, and be part of various leadership initiatives. SLI motivates students into striving for a better future for not only ourselves, but for our community and to be proud of where we come from. SLI helped me embrace my culture and set college and career goals while forming lifelong friendships along the way.
During my junior year of high school, I remember SLI guiding us through the college application process. We were assigned to have 5 colleges that we wanted to apply to, but I felt discouraged and did not think I would be able to continue with SLI. This is where my story is unique. During this time, I was 16 years old and found out I was expecting a child. I remember sitting down with Dr. Alemán and Mrs. Bowman to share the news, while I was feeling overwhelmed by the changes in my life and doubting my ability to finish high school or pursue college. SLI came alongside me and encouraged me to continue my education and reminded me that my dreams were still possible. I was focused on achieving academic success, earning my high school diploma, and pursuing college options but becoming a mother sparked a new determination to balance family, education, and a desire to help others just as SLI helped me. With their support I was able to continue to work hard and I was able to finish high school a semester early and graduate with an advanced diploma.
SLI helped prepare me for the college experience and provided me with the opportunity to continue my education. I received my associates degree in human services from Blue Ridge Community College and then transferred to James Madison University, where I graduated with my bachelor’s in social work. Today I am a community health educator at Sentara RMH and a program coordinator through Young Life. Through both of my current jobs I am able to work with supporting families in our community and share my success by helping others. Being a mother and continuing my education has been a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey and I am deeply grateful for the support I received from SLI.
I appreciate you all for your continued support in allowing me to fulfill my educational dream to be a first generation college student. It is truly an honor to be supported and represented by SLI. Because of this program I am able to now give back and work alongside in our community. You all allow me to have this opportunity and investing in my future not only has supported me but also my son and for that I cannot thank you all enough.
