Meet Morelia Tinajero, a 2021 graduate from the College of Business.
Morelia Tinajero obtained an Associate Degree in Paralegal and Business Administration at Wallace State Community College before transferring to Athens State to complete her Bachelor of Science in Management. She is a first-generation college graduate in her family. While continuing her education at Athens State, Tinajero lived two hours away from campus, worked a full-time job, and cared for her two children.
“My experience at Athens State was welcoming,” recalled Morelia. “The dedication, care, and hard work that the faculty and staff provide to their students is inspiring and really made an impression on me when I transferred.”
Today, Morelia works at the Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama (HICA) as the English as a Second Language (ESL) and Civics Instructor. In her role, she serves the immigrant community by helping them prepare for the citizenship test. From naturalization to citizenship, Morelia is there every step of the way to ensure her clients have the information and resources needed to successfully assimilate and complete the life-changing process.
“Like many, I came from a family who migrated to the United States in the hopes of obtaining the American Dream,” Tinajero said. “Seeing my family achieve their citizenship inspired me to work hard and fulfill my purpose to help other immigrants.”
Morelia shared that her time at Athens State gave her the opportunity to prove herself. She was awarded scholarship money at a time of financial hardship; she says her prayers were answered by these scholarships, allowing her to continue pursuing her purpose to graduate and serve those seeking citizenship.
Athens State provided Morelia much more than the resources and skills needed to succeed in the workforce. Through the opportunity to continue her education, she realized she had the tenacity, resilience, and grit to accomplish her dreams. In the future, she hopes to continue her education by going to law school to specialize in immigration law.
Athens State is home to many students like Morelia. Students who have goals for the future and are seeking to lead their family and career into greater opportunities. Students are able to find devoted faculty and staff, scholarships, and the flexible schedule they need to reach their full potential, all while balancing the responsibilities of family and work life.
“My experience at Athens State was welcoming,” recalled Morelia. “The dedication, care, and hard work that faculty and staff provide to their students is inspiring and really made an impression on me when I transferred.”