MassBay graduate, Sonia Sousa Aguiar never stopped believing in herself, even when the odds were stacked against her. She arrived in the United States from the Azores just days before Christmas in 2012. Sonia spent years working, struggling, sacrificing, and dreaming of a college education. In May, that dream became a reality as Sonia earned her associate degree in liberal arts with a concentration in human services.
“I’ve been waiting for this my whole life,” said Sonia. “My first seven years in the U.S., I dreamed that I could go to college.”
Sonia, a resident of Norton, balanced full-time work at Advocates with a full course load, attending classes at night and on weekends. She credits the MassReconnect program and the support of MassBay Professors Lizz Hannigan and Liz Watson for supporting her and “helping her take a leap” into her studies.
“If it wasn’t for Advocates being connected to my mentors, Professor Hannigan and Professor Watson, and the MassReconnect program, this journey wouldn’t have been possible. Even now, this moment makes me emotional. The MassReconnect program is changing people’s lives. Knowledge changes a person’s life by shedding layers and gaining a shield of knowledge. It’s powerful to change your life and start fresh. It’s a great feeling to have. It’s a blessing,” Sonia said.
While at MassBay, Sonia earned the Direct Support Certificate before enrolling in the Human Services program. She earned a spot on the Dean’s List every semester, was inducted into the Psi Beta Honor Society, and maintained a 3.9 GPA. Sonia will continue her education at Framingham State University in the fall where she will pursue a bachelor’s degree in world languages. Her ultimate goal includes earning her master’s degree and teaching English, Portuguese, and Spanish, “bringing students together through the power of language.”
Now a U.S. citizen, Sonia reflects on her journey with pride and gratitude.
“I feel worthy of being seen at MassBay, and MassReconnect was like the father I never had. It is support that helps you take a huge and important step in your life. You want to live better for yourself. And I am living proof to keep pushing, keep going, and never give up,” said Sonia.
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