There comes a moment in life when the voice inside you says, “It’s your turn now.” For me, that moment arrived at 51 years old. After decades of caring for aging parents, navigating the grief of becoming a widow in 2007, and raising two sons who are now completing their master’s degrees, I found myself standing in a quiet house with two cats and a question: “Now what?”

I was born in Guatemala, where education, especially higher education, is not always accessible. Attending college was an unattainable dream, and then life happened so quickly. (I still feel like I am in my 20s.)

Returning to college at 51 has been one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences of my life. Most of my journey has been online, but when I had to walk into classrooms filled with students young enough to be my children, I felt a loneliness I didn’t expect. I felt different in every possible way: older, an immigrant, someone who had lived an entire life before setting foot on a university campus. Many times, I felt like an outsider.

Slowly, I began to understand that my lived experience was a strength. I had perspective, discipline, and most of all, a deep appreciation for the opportunity to learn. I am writing this today because I am challenging myself, putting myself out there among young minds, learning from them, and hopefully helping someone along the way.

My college journey changed the day I discovered the TRIO Student Support Services program. It was during my First Year Seminar course. At first, I wasn’t sure if it was meant for someone like me, but I sent the application anyway.

The moment I walked through their doors, I felt something I hadn’t felt since returning to school: belonging. TRIO SSS became my anchor.

Academically, they guide me through unfamiliar systems and connect me with resources I didn’t even know existed. Emotionally, they offer encouragement during meetings when I share my future goals. Financially, I received one of their grants, which has been helpful as I needed to reduce my work hours to be a full-time student.

I am deeply grateful to the TRIO staff for their support and encouragement.

I often think about how many first-generation, financially eligible, and students with disabilities walk through campus unaware that TRIO SSS exists. If you qualify, I encourage you to reach out, apply, and become part of it. You deserve support, guidance, and a community that believes in your potential.

My path to higher education has been far from traditional; however, it has been meaningful. Every challenge and every responsibility in my life has prepared me for this moment, where I choose myself and follow my dreams.

I do not think I arrived late; I think I arrived ready.