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.
However, one major obstacle in her way was her basic 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.
The first semester was overwhelming. Ashley 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 don’t understand the situation and ask her questions in front of the class; she is left wondering and often does not respond. “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 did not stop. She began attending English tutoring and constantly sought help from the university’s writing center. Marquez shared: “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 is difficult, but possible. The important thing is not to give up and seek support.” William Paterson University provides tools that will allow you to expand your knowledge and therefore 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 classmates and teachers, and great determination, it is possible to adapt, progress, and achieve every one of your goals.”
