Arlett A. Aguayo – June 2011 Scholar of the Month
2010 CHCI-Dell Scholar
Hometown: Grand Prairie, TX
School: North Lake Community College
Degree: AA, Education
1. What field of study do you intend to pursue if you receive the CHCI Scholarship?
My parents are primarily the reason for my pursuit of a higher education. Now that I have gotten older, I have realized the sacrifices my parents have made for me to have a better life. They left their home, their land, and family to be providers. They worked for minimum wage and lived the struggle of not understanding the language. Seeing what my parents went through compels me to provide them a better life. They have not only made me proud, but have taught me important life lessons like never give up.
I want to become a teacher because I enjoy learning. I feel like teachers can make a difference. I have had many great teachers that have taken the time to help me go further. Education can open doors and I wish to be part of the team that guides students to find the pathway to success. I want to be an inspiration to Latino students and be the proof that we can go as far as we want to go.
After spending years in public schools and socializing with different types of people, I have learned a few things about myself. I have a passion for helping others, for helping them succeed. I am eager to learn more about effective teaching or learning methods. I am fluent in Spanish and English with the ability to translate information for parents and students. I want to help my community be informed.
I am a Hispanic full of dreams and ambitions. I have seen the percent of Hispanic graduates and it upsets me the number is not as high as it should be. I want to motivate all races to continue their education far beyond high school.
2. How Has the Scholarship Changed Your Life?
I have said many times to my family that I would never have enough words to express my gratitude for all the help I got from CHCI during this year. Thanks to the CHCI Scholarship Program, I have being able to accomplish my goal on going to school. They played a significant role in making my journey at North Lake College one of the best years of my life. It has tremendously helped me to find my way in college.
Winning the CHCI Scholarship allowed me to continue with my college education. I have been so blessed; it has not only meant financial security, but is also an honor for my academic accomplishments. I am endlessly grateful and only hope that I can someday financially contribute in the same way the donors have helped.