We invite you to discover the inspiring journey of another of our beneficiaries, Andrea. As a dedicated Business Administration student at the University of Antioquia, she has overcome numerous challenges to pursue her dreams. Her story, from the rural areas of Jericó to urban life in Medellín, is a testament to the transformative power of education. The contributions of our donors and volunteers have made a tangible difference in Andrea’s life. Discover the profound impact that you can also have on other students like her. Join us in celebrating her achievements and be inspired to get involved with our foundation.
Who is Andrea?
I am a university student majoring in Business Administration at the University of Antioquia. My story begins in the rural area of Jericó, Antioquia, where I grew up. My family was very much involved in farming activities. My father worked as a day laborer in the fields. We lived in two rural areas of the municipality, but when I reached adolescence, we moved to the urban area in search of better opportunities.
I have been fortunate to be part of a stable family where there has always been love and unity. Since we moved to the urban area of the municipality, my father has been dedicated to driving a motorcycle taxi to support us. My mother has always been a homemaker, caring for the well-being of everyone. I am the second of three siblings and the first in my family to have the opportunity to attend university. My older sister studied a technical program in sports training, and my younger brother graduated from high school last year and is looking to attend the same university to study systems engineering.
I consider myself a determined and resilient person. I always seek the path to achieve my goals, even when no obvious path exists. I played leadership roles in my school, always showing initiative, motivating my classmates, and finding solutions to the challenges that arose in my life. I am a dreamer, striving to turn those dreams into reality, knowing that opportunities do not always just appear but, more often than not, must be actively sought. My story is a testimony to perseverance, determination, and the constant search for opportunities to improve my life.
Why did you decide to pursue a university degree?
Several reasons and circumstances eventually led me to pursue a university degree. First, when you graduate from high school, most young people leave town in search of better opportunities to work or study. So, that already predisposes you to look beyond local opportunities. Additionally, some of my friends from the basketball team served as inspiration. They had graduated from high school before me and had already managed to enter university, and in a way, they served as an example and motivation for me.
Eventually, I decided to continue my studies after high school and seek university admission. I set that goal without knowing very well how I would finance it. Studying at a university meant leaving Jericó and moving to a city. I was firmly convinced that I would somehow find an opportunity. Even if I hadn’t initially secured a spot, I’m sure I would have found a job while continuing to pursue that goal. I simply did not contemplate the possibility of not entering university. Higher education was a goal I had firmly set for myself, and I was willing to do whatever it took to achieve it.
What is the biggest challenge you had to overcome to be in university today?
To be in university today, the biggest challenge I had to overcome was gaining admission to a public university. Then, sustaining myself in the city. My goal was to work while studying and, with any support I could receive from my family, to financially sustain myself. In university, I sought income opportunities by selling drinks, and on weekends, when I visited my family, I took the opportunity to work in restaurants and generate additional income. You always try to balance your studies with work to take advantage of your studies and to manage to financially sustain yourself.
In addition to entering university and securing my maintenance, finding a place to live was a great challenge. When you come from a small town to a big city, you realize the cost of renting there, especially near the university campus. Luckily, a cousin of mine had also moved to Medellin to study, and together, we managed to get a room to share. This made our stay in the city more economical and alleviated the financial burden for me and my family.
What achievement have you reached so far in university that you are most proud of?
I am incredibly proud to have gained university admission. I consider this achievement in itself reason enough to feel unique and proud. Additionally, I am satisfied to have overcome all the challenges and difficulties that university life has presented me with so far, as well as overcoming all the academic challenges that have arisen. I am proud to see the skills that I have developed during my time at university. Now, I realize that all my efforts over many years are bearing fruit.
Likewise, I am proud to have participated in the University’s Business Growth Laboratory (Growing Lab), where we offer administrative consulting services to companies in any area they require. This extracurricular activity allowed me to join consulting projects and get to know the business world firsthand, beyond what is simply learned in the university classrooms.
How has the support of the foundation influenced your university experience?
The support of the impactU foundation has had a significant impact on my university experience. Before becoming a beneficiary of the foundation, the economic situation was tight for my family and me. Having the financial support of impactU has generated a sense of financial security for all of us.
In addition to financial support, the support of impactU has been invaluable in other aspects. Although I have been a beneficiary for a short time, the English classes I have received have been essential to me. I had many difficulties with English; it was a skill I wanted to improve, and I needed more resources. My English teacher, Adriana, is very dear and has greatly helped me. Thanks to her, I have gained confidence in my ability to speak and have improved my fluency. I have also received special support from Felipe to perfect my grammar skills.
In addition to the above, I highly value the support of my mentor and the counseling provided by the foundation. Cesar, my mentor, has begun to involve me in one of his projects, and I have learned from his experience as an entrepreneur. His guidance and advice will be invaluable for my personal and professional development. As for the foundation’s support, I especially appreciate it. Although the university provides counseling and support, the foundation feels closer and gives me greater confidence and security.
How do you see yourself in the future?
I see myself as an entrepreneur in the future and hope to eventually create my own company. Initially, I would like to gain experience in the field of marketing by working for a reputable company. I believe gaining work experience will give me the skills, experience, and knowledge necessary to launch my venture. Although I am still trying to decide which specific area I want to venture into, I know it is a decision I must make over time. I want to make sure to choose a path that I am passionate about.
To conclude, tell us about Jericó, Antioquia. What do you miss? What should we experience?
Jericó, Antioquia, is a special place with many beautiful things to discover. What I miss most about Jericó is its welcoming people and the pleasant climate. Additionally, the town offers various cultural, ecological, and religious tourism opportunities. Among the places that should be visited in Jericó are the Bomarzo Cultural Center, the Maja Museum of Anthropology and Arts, the House of Music of Jericó, the History Center, and the House of Mother Laura. If you are interested in ecological tourism, there are many impressive viewpoints; you can visit El Morro Hill, Quebradona Waterfall, and the Las Brujas and Los Molinos Rivers. Not to mention the Las Nubes Natural Park and the Los Balsos Botanical Garden, which are also ideal destinations to enjoy nature.
Regarding gastronomy, Jericó offers a variety of delicious dishes and produce. I highlight the sweets especially. I recommend trying the ‘luisa jericuana’ and the ‘postre jericuano,’ which are unique to the town, as well as the cardamom sweets. Additionally, the municipality is known for its production of fruits and coffee. Many local coffee brands come from local farms, offering a unique experience for coffee lovers. The town is also famous for its leather craftsmanship, especially the typical ‘carriel paisa,’ among other products manufactured with the same traditional style of the carriel.
In summary, Jericó is a place full of charm and tradition, with a diverse tourist offer and delicious gastronomy worth exploring. The warmth of its people and the beauty of its natural surroundings make Jericó a must-visit destination in Colombia. Definitely worth a visit!
Join us!
Many other young students, like Andrea, could greatly benefit from your support. You can make a significant difference in their lives. Whether you volunteer your time or donate, your contribution will provide crucial support to help other students like Andrea pursue their educational dreams. Your participation will open doors for these individuals and contribute to building a brighter future for their families and communities. Support us and let’s change lives together!
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