Scholar Spotlight: Michelle Mendoza
Chatfield Scholar Michelle Mendoza was born and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico. Michelle’s mom was born in the U.S. but moved to Mexico at 12.
Just one-semester shy of graduating high school in Mexico, the political corruption and unrest became too much, and Michelle, who was 17 years old at the time, moved to Cincinnati to live with her sister.
The plan was for Michelle to finish her final semester of high school in the U.S.
“This was 24 years ago. There were no Spanish translators or interpreters in the schools at that time. A power of attorney to my sister was written in Spanish, and no one could read it, so they wouldn’t allow me to go to school. So, I didn’t finish. I figured school wasn’t meant to be for me. I would work. I worked two to four jobs at a time to make ends meet.”
Even without a high school diploma, Michelle’s ability to speak fluent Spanish and English allowed her to find employment and build a successful life.
Michelle’s father, who remained in Mexico and earned his college degree later in life, encouraged Michelle to complete her education.
“I would laugh when we would talk on the phone about it. In Mexico, in every state, there is one free college. You just need to have good grades to qualify. Going to college here was so hard,” said Mendoza.
However, when Mendoza’s father died, her search for a Spanish-speaking therapist to help her cope with her grief reignited a spark within her to complete her education and become a therapist for others.
Getting started with the GED process came with challenges.
“It took me weeks to get ahold of anyone at the GED program. I’d call and leave messages, but no one would call me back. After several weeks, my husband finally dialed the phone number for two hours straight until someone answered. I probably would have given up if I didn’t have him.”
Michelle earned her GED in April and now volunteers with the program to help others, especially immigrants.
“The educational system here is not easy to navigate. You would probably give up if you don’t have a support system.”
That’s why The Chatfield Edge’s support system for students pursuing post-secondary education is so important.
“After my first meeting with David [Hesson], I got in my car and cried. He said they [The Chatfield Edge] could help me with everything.”
Everything for Michelle included identifying the right schools and programs to help her reach her goal of becoming a therapist, completing the formal application process, securing financial aid, researching federal and state grant and loan programs, and applying for scholarships from corporations, foundations, and individuals.
Michelle now has her sights set on attending the University of Cincinnati in January to major in Psychology.
If you are like Michelle and running into roadblocks while trying to pursue your education, contact The Chatfield Edge. Our services are free and designed to help students attain the education they need to achieve their dreams.
