Student Spotlight: Johana (Amy)

Hola! Hey there! My name is Johana (Amy). I am from Chihuahua, Mexico. We came to the United States when I was four years old back in 2000. I returned to Mexico at the age of 15 years in 2010, and finally returned to the States in 2017. I am the oldest of my three siblings. I am married and have a beautiful 11-month-old baby girl, Eliana Danae. My daughter is my number one motivation and the reason I decided to get my high school equivalency (HSE) diploma and go to college here in the United States. I’ve always loved school, but things changed in 2010. My mom had to return to Mexico to change her immigration status, I stayed behind with my dad and was a victim of sexual assault. I went through depression and dropped out of high school. I was afraid of leaving my room. My father became extremely worried, so he decided we would join my mom and siblings in Mexico. After a year, my mom and siblings had to return to the states, but I couldn’t. My immigration process had just started and took six years to resolve.

I finished school in Mexico and got a degree in educational psychology. My family proudly represents Mexico, my mother’s birthplace; Iraq, my father’s birthplace; and Guatemala, my husband’s birthplace. As immigrants, we had to learn another language, a new living system, and different cultures. Everything was different, but we conquered our own fears and succeeded in a foreign country. Both my parents are bilingual and successful small business owners. My husband also is bilingual and has his own small business. I have taught English as a second language to Spanish speakers for about 5 years now. I worked for Catholic Charities until December 2023 when I decided to continue my education and focus on my daughter. Working for them has been an honor, being able to help the community was very important and satisfying. Giving back is something that was taught from my grandparents. The sun shines for everyone. “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35

I would like to thank The Literacy Alliance for making this an easy step and motivating us throughout the process.

When I was a child, my grandma always told me the importance of education, and that has never left my mind. There was a commercial that honored Hispanic people who had achieved something great. Every time I saw it, I would tell her, “That’s going to be me, one day.” I have high standards for myself and will achieve it. I believe every decision has a consequence and everyone is accountable for their own actions. We choose our battles.

I would like to thank The Literacy Alliance for making this an easy step and motivating us throughout the process. To my teacher Amy, thank you, you have helped me gain back the confidence to achieve my goals. Deb and Charlee, my tutors, thank you so much for your patience and for sharing your knowledge. My classmates, you’re so close to achieving your goals. Stay focused, and you’ll succeed!