My name is Andrea, I am currently a full time worker but I am planning on going back to school this fall to start the prerequisites for a Biology major. My journey in community college has been difficult but I am eager to start studying again.
I currently work as a barista in a hospital. Previously, I had attended South Seattle for two different majors.
Right after high school, I attended college uncertain about my field of study so I understand the significant financial burden and pressure to choose a major quickly to minimize costs. I was lucky to attain Seattle promise, and during my two first years I got my certificate as a Nursing Assistant. However after completing my Certificate of Nurse Assistance, I faced an unexpected obstacle: I couldn’t take the state exam because I was unsure of the requirements due to my immigration status. This uncertainty and lack of clear guidance not only prevented me from advancing in my chosen field but also left me feeling discouraged and stuck. Had there been clearer pathways and support for undocumented students, I could have confidently pursued the certification process.
Even prior to this, I had faced obstacles as an undocumented student. As a nursing assistant, you are required to attain a certain number of hours in a hospital. When I learned of this, I shared with my professor my immigration status and the obstacle that I faced in completing the hours. At first, I was met with a lack of knowledge, my professors did not know what to do. At the end, I was able to complete the required hours at Seattle Central, with the help of one of my professors. While I’m grateful, there is still a lack of knowledge in the obstacles that undocumented students face.
Due to the obstacles previously mentioned, I shifted my career path and because I no longer qualify for Seattle Promise, I have to pay for college out-of-pocket. This is a financial strain because I also have to work full-time in order to pay bills, rent, etc. I know free college would alleviate this financial strain, allowing students like me the freedom to explore various disciplines without the immediate worry of accumulating debt. This flexibility is crucial for those who, like myself, need to work full-time to pay bills, making it challenging to commit to full-time studies. By removing tuition fees, free college would enable individuals to pursue education at their own pace, balancing work and study more effectively. Free college is necessary to the economy and our community.
Andrea Jimenez, Seattle