Reading
Young Adult
I read books multiple times per month
Yarely Orozco Paniagua
435
Bold Points1x
FinalistYarely Orozco Paniagua
435
Bold Points1x
FinalistEducation
Grand Canyon University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Psychology, General
Minors:
- Human Resources Management and Services
Glendale High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Psychology, Other
- Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other
- Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
Career
Dream career field:
psychology
Dream career goals:
Unsure
Future Interests
Volunteering
La Santana Scholarship
My name is Yarely Orozco Paniagua, I am an overachiever, a volunteer, an advocate and so much more. I am also an immigrant, but you wouldn't know that unless I told you. The words immigrant or undocumented hold such a negative connotation that many automatically assume you are not worthy of opportunity or success, but that is far from the truth. I am currently wrapping up my first year of college at GCU as a first-generation student and immigrant. A fun fact about me is that I am majoring in Psychology with a minor in Human Services Case Management. Originally I wanted to study social work; however, due to my status, I was told to rethink my major and so I did. Being an immigrant means you are limited to only a pool of opportunities while others have an entire sea; however, that will not stop me. I chose a minor as close to social work as my school offered and I could not be happier about that decision. Changing my major was a redirection in my education, but it was not a setback. If anything, it reminded me of the obstacles the migrant communities face.
My wildest dreams include embracing my stories and supporting vulnerable communities including immigrants, minorities, and women. These individuals are neglected of resources, support, and aid. I would love to learn from them and use my knowledge to educate the community while being able to emphasize with them. There is so much society has denied them, and I want to be able to give back. I understand the trauma and difficulties around these communities and would love to use my future degree to help them. As a freshman there are so many jobs a psychology degree would open up that I am not sure in what direction I can make my dreams come true; however, I have a general idea of where I want to eventually end up.
In continuation, I would love to at some point host workshops for people who only speak Spanish. Since I am bilingual- fluent in Spanish and English- I've been translating both languages for as long as I can remember, and would love to use that skill to benefit an entire community of people. Hosting group sessions specifically in Spanish for those who are not fluent in English would be an incredible opportunity. There is so much potential for my degree, and I cannot wait to explore it.
I continue to search for more opportunities to share my story and embrace my struggle, and I appreciate the chance to do so through this essay. Thank you!