Plansoen Scholar Highlight: Maria Fernandez

Maria Fernandez

Maria is a rising senior, a Sociology and Anthropology Major with a Minor in Business. She is from North Chicago and a graduate from CLC (College of Lake County) where she was a Student Senator and was Chief of Staff of the Student Government Association. While at LFC she has been a First Connection Coordinator; Co-President of UNIDAS; Member of Latin American Women’s Empowerment Group; also a member of Latinos Unidos.

Maria writes:

“I am the first generation of my family to go to college.  Transferring to LFC was a big accomplishment for me.  I am the oldest with two little brothers.  I am proud to be a role model for them.  If I could make it all the way here, they most definitely can also.  As an undocumented student I want to be a role model for everyone who thinks that it is impossible to succeed in a country that is not your own.  What I first thought was impossible became possible and now I can show others that hard work and persistence always pays off.  Finally, and most importantly, I am a believer, I know there is one, and only one, God and I have faith in him.  He gives me the strength that I need every day.  Without his guidance, I would not be here and be the person I am today.”

We look forward to getting to know Maria and we welcome her presence among us as part this year’s 2022 – 2023 class of Plansoen Family Scholars.

Scroll to Top