At 19, Ashley Marquez, the Beacon’s Chief Spanish Editor, left Venezuela for the U.S. with dreams of academic success but limited English. She transformed her biggest obstacle into success through perseverance, tutoring, and campus support.
When she arrived at William Paterson, the obstacle that stood in her way of success was her knowledge of English, as it is her second language. She could understand simple sentences and introduce herself, but was unprepared to read academic texts and follow a class entirely in English.
She recalls her first semester as overwhelming. Marquez remembers sitting in her “The Well Lived Life” course, understanding little of what the professor said. “I felt invisible and dumb, like I was trapped in a movie without subtitles that I didn’t understand.” The readings in class were comprehensive, and she used the translator for almost everything, which took her three times as long as her classmates.
On many occasions, teachers were unaware of her situation and asked her questions in front of the class; she was left confused and rarely responded. Marquez said, “I would like to express everything I know, but language is a barrier that prevents me from showing my true potential.”
However, despite the difficulties, she persevered. She began attending English tutoring and constantly sought help from the university’s writing center. Marquez added: “Sometimes I would cry out of frustration, but I also kept telling myself that I was here for something, and I would manage to overcome the language barriers.”
Although her progress was slow, she began to gain confidence. Marquez’s English improved in the classroom and her daily life: at work, at the mall, and in casual conversations.
“I started to feel more confident speaking. Even though I wasn’t perfect, I could understand the professors very well, and talking to them became easier and easier,” Marquez recalled.
What once terrified her now makes her proud.
The experience taught her something fundamental: “Speaking English does not define your intelligence or abilities. Learning a language while pursuing a career can be challenging, but it’s possible. The important thing is not to give up and seek support.” She says that William Paterson University provides tools that enable you to expand your knowledge and, consequently, your possibilities.
Ashley firmly believes that language should not become a barrier, nor should it limit your goals.
Arriving at the university without a high level of English is not the end of the road, but the beginning of a road full of challenges, learning, and growth. Marquez added: “With institutional support, solidarity from your professors, and great determination, it becomes easier to adapt, progress, and achieve every one of your goals.”
