Throughout our lives we receive many gifts. Some gifts can make us feel happy, some can make us feel grateful, and others, like the gift of education, can fill us with pride and make a huge impact in our lives. Ever since I was a little girl, I always wanted to study because I thought that it was the best option for a successful life, but after I finished high school, I could not continue my studies, and some years had to pass until the opportunity to fulfill my dream came up. It was with the support of my family that I found inspiration and encouragement to start a new beginning.
Taking the first step was not easy. I was afraid and very shy of starting a new educational challenge as it . Ten years had passed since I was in high school. My pursuit of this dream of mine represented a new beginning, in a different country and with a different language, but I made the decision and enrolled in Florida National University. Due to my insecurities, I enrolled in a short program. I did not know how I would be able to handle it; and I cried every time I started a new class, but at the end of the semester I noticed that something was growing inside me, something called self-esteem.
With the passing of the months and the grades I was earning, I was motivated into thinking that I could reach a higher educational goal if I trusted myself and my abilities. After I graduated from Florida National University with a Medical Coding and Billing Specialist Diploma, I enrolled in the University’s Criminal Justice Associate degree program. Once again, I was afraid because after all it was an associate degree, a bigger challenge, and a greater responsibility, but I did it! I finished my associate’s degree with honors. It was hard, but worth it. Currently, I am enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree.
Because of my experience, I can say that education is a gift. It is a gift that we cannot buy, but must acquire by our own merit. A priceless gift that makes a huge impact in our lives that enriches not only our knowledge, and abilities but also our self- esteem. Higher education gives you the opportunity to succeed and to find that you can reach your goals and prepare yourself for a better future. It gives you the confidence needed to be successful not only in the professional field, but also in your life.
By Ms. Eliana Iñiguez
Florida National University Student
Criminal Justice Major Class of 2015
About Ms. Eliana Iñiguez
Ms. Eliana Iñiguez has been a Florida National University (FNU) student since 2011. She earned a Medical Coding and Billing Specialist Diploma from FNU. Recently, she completed her A.S. in Criminal Justice with honors. Currently, she is working on her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. Ms. Iñiguez plans to graduate in 2015.
