Glorian's College Journey: A Venezuelan Immigrant's Perspective

Glorian, a Venezuelan immigrant, is taking a gap year before attending college. Her journey is a testament to the diverse paths young adults take in achieving their educational goals, especially when navigating the complexities of immigration and the financial realities of pursuing higher education.

• Glorian arrived in the United States in 2019 after finishing high school in Venezuela. Her decision to take a gap year stemmed from a desire to explore her interests and gain a clearer vision of what she wanted to pursue in college. She realized that the Venezuelan education system lacked the resources and quality she desired, and she wanted to adjust to the American education system.
• She is looking to take the CAT exam to enter Cuny and is considering psychology as her major.
• Glorian’s story highlights the significance of self-discovery before committing to a college path and the importance of navigating the financial challenges of pursuing higher education.

Why Psychology?

Glorian’s passion for psychology is rooted in her desire to help others. She draws inspiration from TedTalks that emphasize the need for support and guidance during formative years. She aspires to become a resource for others, providing empathy and understanding.

• Her personal experience with navigating the challenges of adapting to a new country and a different education system instilled in her a desire to support others in their own journeys.
• Glorian believes that a college education in psychology will equip her with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively help others.

The Financial Realities of College

Glorian is keenly aware of the financial realities of attending college. She recognizes that the cost of education represents an investment in her future and acknowledges the challenges of balancing her current job with saving for tuition. She is committed to funding her education independently, as her parents are unable to support her financially.

• Glorian understands that while college is a significant investment, it also offers a chance to gain valuable knowledge and build a foundation for a successful career.
• She acknowledges the possibility of changing majors during her college years and emphasizes the importance of having a plan for the future.

The Benefits of a Gap Year

Glorian’s story highlights the benefits of taking a gap year. While some parents may discourage it, Glorian believes that her year of self-discovery has allowed her to gain clarity about her future goals. She has been able to work towards financial independence, making her college journey more manageable.

• The author, Gary Vaynerchuk, supports the idea of taking a gap year, advocating for students to prioritize self-awareness and personal growth before diving into a college path.
• He argues that the pressure from parents to immediately pursue college after high school can lead to insecurity and anxiety for young adults. He emphasizes the importance of parents respecting their children’s choices and allowing them to take ownership of their futures.

The Importance of Financial Independence

Glorian's journey showcases the importance of financial independence when making college decisions. Her dedication to funding her education independently demonstrates a strong sense of self-reliance and responsibility. This financial independence allows her to choose a college path aligned with her interests and goals, without being dictated by external financial constraints.

• While parental financial support is a common factor in college choices, Glorian's story encourages a shift towards personal responsibility and self-sufficiency in navigating the financial aspects of higher education.
• Financial independence allows young adults to make decisions that are truly aligned with their personal and professional aspirations, fostering a greater sense of ownership and purpose in their college journeys.

Navigating the College Landscape

Glorian's story underscores the complex landscape of college choices and the importance of embracing self-discovery. She emphasizes the need to explore options, consider the financial implications of different institutions, and make decisions aligned with personal goals.

• Glorian’s commitment to pursuing a degree in psychology despite facing financial challenges highlights the determination and resilience of students who are navigating the complex realities of pursuing higher education.
• Her story encourages other students to embrace the importance of self-reflection, explore their passions, and navigate the financial aspects of college in a way that empowers them to make informed decisions.