Working Moms Graduate

December 13, 2014, graduation Fall 2014 took place on Texas A&M International University Kinesiology Convocation Building. Various people of every age and every background walked the stage to receive their diploma. From brothers, sisters, daughters, sons, mothers, and fathers.

Some people start their higher education right after high school but not everyone does due to certain circumstances. Each story is not the same and coming back to school might be a challenge. For people like Diana Laura Arellano and Ana Lee Medrano, coming back to school and accomplishing their goal of receiving their diploma was not easy.

Diana and Ana are both working mothers and have two kids each. The Bridge interviewed these two amazing women to get their stories as they were waiting for their proud families after the graduation.

Diana Laura Arellano (age 36) is single mother of two, (Danny Medina, age 15 and Dayna Medina, age 11) and a full-time employee of the newspaper Laredo Morning Times on sells completed her Bachelor’s Degree of Arts in Communication. The Bridge asked Diana how it felt to graduate, Arellano responded, “I did it! It’s a great feeling to accomplish something I have always wanted to prove not only to myself but to prove to my kids and family that anything is possible. Yes, it was a long road… a bumpy one too, but empowerment comes from within and my kids are the force that drives me. They are my inspiration.

I decided to come back to school because I needed to prove to them that it is possible, and that if I did it they should have no excuse not to do it. I try to be a role model to them I live and grow because of them.”

So what’s next for Diana? Arellano commented, “Oh you’re not getting rid of me just yet! I will actually start the Master’s program next semester. Why stop now right? Dr. Maria Flores inspired me to actually continue my education, she has become my mentor, and if she believes in me that’s a great inspiration.”

Ana Lee Medrano (age 30) graduated with a Bachelors of Art and Science majoring in Spanish. Ana Lee Medrano is the mother of two (Brandon Medrano, age 10 and Allie Medrano of 5) and is married to Miguel E. Medrano. Ana Lee has worked as a substitute teacher in various elementary schools and still attended TAMIU while taking care of kids as well.

When The Bridge asked what she was feeling after receiving her degree, Medrano’s eyes watered and she replied, “it’s a great feeling to walk and receive your diploma. Having my family here to support me as they have always done. But my educational journey is still not over. I am planning to pursue my Master’s Degree in Administration of Education. My husband has been a great support and my children are my inspiration to continue growing educationally.”

The Bridge congratulates the class of 2014 and congratulates Diana and Anna proving that there are no excuses, not to pursue their dreams. The road might not be easy, but the sensation of achievement is something no one can ever take away from you. Extraordinary women are capable of everything Diana and Anna are a clear example. Good luck in your future endeavors accomplishments.