Mia Ayala: These two years taught me more than I ever expected

My journey at Elgin Community College began in a way I didn’t expect.  

I was born and raised in Guatemala City and moved to the United States three years ago. Many things led my family and me to make this move, and while some memories carry pain and struggle, I’ve found a place where I feel I belong. Coming from a low-income family, I faced many challenges, including being forced to leave my home in Guatemala. Adjusting to a new life here wasn’t easy. As a first-generation college student, I carried the hopes of my family while figuring out how to succeed in a completely new country. I often felt like I didn’t belong or didn’t know how to succeed in this new world. 

I started high school as a senior, and after graduation, I felt lost. I didn’t know where to go or what to study because everything felt so unfamiliar. I had to learn about things like financial aid and student resources, which were new and confusing to me. Balancing school and responsibilities at home also made things harder. As the only English speaker in my family, I had to handle most of the household tasks and appointments. It was overwhelming, and I often doubted myself. But I knew I had to keep going for my family and myself.  

Just days before registering at ECC, I got a letter from Mr. Jason Kane inviting me to join the honors program. That letter sparked something in me. Mr. Kane listened to me, understood me, and made me feel like I belonged. He encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, and even though I was hesitant, I decided to take a chance. Joining the [honors] program changed my life. It helped me build confidence I didn’t know I had. The program gave me a space to grow and connect with others. 

ECC was a home to me during these two years, and I would never change what I [experienced] here for anything. It’s the best decision I’ve made so far, and I will always be grateful. I always felt supported, and I think that’s why I’m going to miss it so much. The sense of belonging I found here, the encouragement, and the genuine care from others made all the struggles worth it. I will always carry in my heart the people and friends I found here. Without their support and the love and encouragement from my family, I wouldn’t be here writing my story. Leaving my home behind was painful, and missing it reminded me of why I’m doing all this, to build something better for myself and my family. Even though I had to leave my real home behind, I found a new one here. 

I’m especially thankful for Migdalia Perez, who helped me during some of the hardest times. She showed me how to set boundaries, take care of my mental health, and maintain healthy relationships.  I also want to thank Michelle Ramirez, who welcomed me into TRIO Support Services. It felt like finding a family and a safe space.  

I’m grateful to Candice Inc and Travis Linville, who always believed in my potential. Candice helped me grow as an artist and see the value in my skills. She encouraged me to trust my creative voice. Travis helped me develop my love for photography and gave me the confidence to explore it further. Before, I didn’t even know how to use a camera, but with their support, I discovered a passion that’s now a big part of who I am. 

As I prepare for the next chapter, I look back with gratitude. These two years taught me more than I ever expected: about myself, others, and what I’m capable of. Now I’m planning to transfer to a four-year university to study design and interior architecture, while continuing to grow as an artist and photographer. 

I want to be an inspiration to those who are thinking about or doubting following their dreams. If there’s one thing I want people to take from my story, it’s this: don’t let fear stop you. Take the risk, even if it’s scary. Looking back, my only regrets are the things I didn’t try. ECC allowed me to dream bigger, and I can’t wait to see where those dreams take me. 

Life turns out to be hard sometimes, but it’s the resilience, the creativity, the passion, the love, my family, and the support that help me find my strength. These things remind us to keep going. And I know that no matter where life takes me, I will always carry these lessons with me, the belief that we are capable of so much more than we think. 

Gracias, ECC. 

Mia Ayala, '25 

West Dundee, Illinois  

Associate in Arts