Building Futures with Blanca

Transcript

Here with us now is WNMU alumni, Blanca, who grew up right here in Silver City. Her story represents that of so many college students who are working to chase their dreams while balancing work and raising a family. With support from WNMU, she was able to accomplish that and so much more. Take it away, Blanca.

– Hi, Alex. Thank you for that warm introduction. Hello, everyone. Although I grew up near WNMU, I never saw college as an option in my life. However, after becoming a parent, I realized I needed to pursue higher education in order to provide better opportunities for both myself and my daughter. I made the decision to change the narrative of my family, and Western New Mexico University made that possible. As I navigated the college landscape, I felt a strong sense of community and support by the university’s staff and professors. WNMU offered the ability to balance parenting while being a student. Thanks to the WNMU Child Development Center, I was able to have my four month old daughter on campus with me. She has been on a college campus most of her life and is now in college herself. I was fortunate to have a very personalized college experience. My professors encouraged me and supported me every step of the way. They saw the potential in me that I couldn’t see in myself. And honestly, this changed my life. Because of WNMU, I grew academically, professionally and personally. What makes WNMU truly unique is the way it embraces diverse students like me. Whether you’re a parent, a non-traditional, or a first generation student, WNMU provides an inclusive environment. It set me on a path to pursue my master’s degree in educational and counseling psychology and eventually led to the completion of my PhD in counseling psychology last year. Attending Western New Mexico University had a significant impact on my life in various ways. Since graduating, I have made pursuing higher education a central focus in my life. My WNMU degrees opened doors for me that I never imagined were possible. I will always value the education and the relationships I gained here. Back to you, Alex.

– Thank you for sharing your story, Blanca. WNMU really opened doors and created opportunities for you to continue down an impressive path. With resources like the Childhood Development Center located on campus, parents don’t have to choose between childcare options and attending class. Thanks again, Blanca.