Hilary came to the U.S. from Haiti not knowing English. Learning a new language was very difficult. “So, I made goals. They were to speak fluent English, adapt to the educational system and culture, maintain good grades, and most importantly, make my parents proud...I achieved my goals. I knew my voice was heard.”

She looks forward to a nursing career and is joyous about a new challenge in her life. She has heard that college can be difficult, and worries about better managing her time. In high school she could ask for help, but it might not be so easy in college.

“In Haiti, we poetically say, ‘You can’t just watch the trees throw things at you,’” meaning you can’t simply sit back and wait for opportunities — you have to go after them. Hilary believes that in the U.S., opportunities are always within reach if you’re willing to work for them. Here, she has gained independence and overcome her fear of public speaking.