Nancy Rodriguez Sanchez thought she’d never be able to attend college. She began to research her options during her sophomore year of high school. “It got dark quickly,” she said. “There weren’t many options.”
As an undocumented immigrant without Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Nancy couldn’t apply for Federal Student Aid. A native of Durango, Mexico, she was 13 years old when she came to the United States in 2016 with her mother and younger sister. They joined her aunt, who was already living here. “It was a struggle back in Mexico,” Nancy said. “I saw the move as a new beginning. I wanted to put all of myself into getting an education because that was my idea.”
Nancy, who didn’t speak English, began high school at 13. “The only words I knew were hello and I love you,” she said. But she didn’t let that stop her. She learned the language and graduated third in her class. “If you put in the effort and have the motivation, and you care, you can go places,” she said.
After graduating high school, Nancy learned about the Misericordia Scholarship at College of Saint Mary. The scholarship opens the door to education for undocumented students of diverse backgrounds who are not eligible for federal assistance. It is donor funded.
Nancy visited CSM and interviewed for the scholarship. “During the interviews, I felt like I belonged at CSM,” Nancy said. “Then I got the call. That made my life.”
Stepping on campus for the first time was surreal for the junior Spanish secondary education and special education major. “I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “I felt like I was in a movie.”
Attending college has made Nancy realize that her dreams can come true. “It was eye-opening getting to know many people from various backgrounds,” she said. “Seeing how many women can accomplish their dreams is so fulfilling. It makes me happy not only seeing myself succeed but my friends too.”
Nancy has developed relationships with her professors and her advisor. She’s also gotten the hands-on experience she’ll need as a teacher. Recently, she completed field experiences in Omaha and Elkhorn public schools. “I found both experiences fulfilling. I enjoyed meeting the teachers. They were passionate about it. They gave me a lot of resources, ideas and support.”
In addition to her classes, Nancy is the vice president of the Spanish Club and a member of Latinas Empowering Others. She played Mima in the CSM drama department’s production of “The Adivina is Never Wrong.” She also works in Student Support Services.
Now in the process of getting her citizenship, Nancy reflected on her journey to CSM and noted how much she appreciates the donors to the Misericordia Scholarship.
“I think they are angels. I don’t know where they came from, but I’m very grateful,” she said. “You see myself and my friends when they tell their stories and what they want to do. Because of someone we are here. I owe you my life almost. I’m grateful for their actions and hope they see their rewards. I hope they see us succeed and feel proud of what they’re doing.”
