by Daniela Rodriquez, Contributor

Hisleny Garcia is the associate director of Creative Services at NorthWest Arkansas Community College. Once a student at the college, Garcia now works in the college’s marketing department and handles branding development as well as using her skills to aid in the college’s student recruitment. As a former student, Garcia shares how NWACC helped her in her academic journey as well as some hurdles she had to overcome.

“I became a student at NWACC by attending the LIFE program when I was in high school,” Garcia said. “Since I am a first-generation college student, it was an important role for me to take part in.” The LIFE (Learning, Improvement, Fun, and Empowerment) program at NWACC has been in existence for more than a decade and connects and supports area high school students who may or may not be considering college after graduation, according to the college’s website. LIFE’s mission is to empower and create desire and access to quality higher education opportunities for students, to promote student success during and after their enrollment in the LIFE program, and to create an atmosphere of acceptance and cultural celebration by linking all communities and peoples.

Northwest Arkansas Community College is well known for the large percentage of Hispanic and Latino students who attend the school (22% according to the 2022 Fact Book) but more specifically students with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status. “I know going to a big university is a bit intimidating for students with DACA,” she said. “There’s a lot that they have to consider; for example, how close you want to be with your professors?” 

Students with DACA often don’t know that they have resources that can help them throughout their experience at NWACC such as scholarships and clubs that are made specifically for them. The LIFE webpage at the nwacc.edu site notes that transitioning to college after high school is a rewarding, but challenging journey. “We can help you navigate the obstacles and connect you with a college-age LIFE mentor who can walk you through it all step by step,” the description notes.

Juanita Franklin is the Director for Hispanic Initiatives at Northwest Arkansas Community College, and she is here to serve the Hispanic community at the school. “For students with DACA and even those who are completely undocumented,” she said, “it’s important for them to stay involved and connected and build relationships with people such as students, faculty and staff.” 

The college experience is very different for everyone, and many students face different struggles throughout their journey. Garcia identifies a hurdle that she had to overcome. “Being a minority, it can be a little difficult being a part of something, especially when you don’t see other minorities there with you,” she said. “I had to learn to be independent and be proud of who I am.”

Franklin shares a little bit about her experience with Garcia as a student and now a fellow college employee. “Hisleny, in particular, made a huge impact on the NWACC campus as a leader,” Franklin said, adding that Garcia is a good example of a person who gives back. 

One way she has been a supporter of the program is to serve as a Legacy Mentor. Recently, Garcia and her parents spoke at a Rogers Schools’ event discussing their journey of dreaming big. “Because of people like Hisleny, we have slowly seen our Hispanic enrollment growing,” Franklin said.

For more information on how to get involved with the LIFE program and for more resources for Hispanic students, students with DACA, and scholarship opportunities you can contact Franklin through email at hispanicoutreach@nwacc.edu.