What is your cultural background?
I was born in Medina de Pomar, a tiny town in northern Spain. At 13, my family and I relocated to Bilbao, a dynamic city in the Basque Country. Basketball has always been my passion; I used it as a stepping stone to achieve my academic goals. Seeking to broaden my horizons, I had the privilege of attending CBA Academy, the best basketball academy in Europe. After completing high school there, I continued my studies at La Laguna University in the Canary Islands for a year. After two years of blood, sweat, and tears, I was recruited by the Marshalltown Community College Tigers basketball team, and the rest is history.
What parts of American culture do you find interesting?
During my two-year experience in the United States, I have been captivated by the American culture’s emphasis on hard work. The nation’s reputation as the “land of opportunity” owes a lot to the relentless dedication and efforts of its hard-working citizens. They are living proof of the belief that success is earned through perseverance rather than just chance. Their inspiring mindset is why I want to live here for the rest of my life.
What subjects are you studying?
I am currently pursuing a degree in Business Organizational Management at Allen University, located in downtown Columbia, South Carolina. However, my academic journey began in Marshalltown, Iowa, where I received accolades, such as being selected for the academic all-region team and earning a position on the Dean’s List for maintaining a grade point average of over 3.5. Since transferring to Allen University in August, I’ve excelled academically, making the President’s List for the fall semester with a 4.0 GPA. I also earned recognition on the Dean’s List in the spring. Business Law, Technical Writing, and Principles of Marketing have sparked my interest and brought me closer to securing a business internship and pursuing a master’s degree in real estate. Allen University has provided incredible growth opportunities, and I’m excited to continue my journey toward impacting the real estate industry.
How has your college experience been thus far?
My journey so far has been full of challenges. Leaving my family and friends behind, I ventured into a completely unfamiliar country, surrounded by a different culture and unfamiliar faces. While this transition has proven to be demanding, it has also helped me realize my ability to adapt to a different life situation. I am proud to say that immersion in English has never posed a significant barrier. Still, much more lies ahead on my journey, but I take pride in where I stand today. My motivation comes from the desire to provide a better life not only for my family but also for myself. I am driven by my commitment to creating opportunities for my loved ones.
What message would you like to send to your friends back home?
Me gustaria expresar mi más sincero agradecimiento a todas las personas que han sido parte fundamental de mi trayectoria. Mi familia y amigos han servido como un apoyo incondicional en este camino, pero quiero destacar especialmente a mi madre, a quien considero una verdadera heroína. Su amor, apoyo y dedicación han sido un motor insustituible en mi vida.
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all the people who have contributed to my journey up to this very moment. My family and friends have been unwavering pillars of support along the way, but I want to particularly thank my mother, whom I consider a true heroine. Her love, support, and dedication have been an irreplaceable driving force in my life.