Student Debora Leon Jordan did some globetrotting from Ecuador to New York before family helped her find Gateway Technical College in Kenosha.
"I'm from Ecuador, and my siblings came to Wisconsin many years ago. However, when I first came to the United States, I went to New York. But in the last few years, my sister, who lives in Kenosha, told me to come and try Gateway Technical College," says Debora.
"I spoke with the International Education staff here, and they helped me get into the college."
There's a stark contrast between life in Ecuador and life in New York City, but after moving to Wisconsin, Debora found Gateway's campus culture to be a breath of fresh air.
"Coming from New York City to Kenosha, I didn't know what to expect. But the campuses are so beautiful. And the faculty are very helpful and easy to understand. I was kind of thrown off because of how much people care here. I really appreciated that."
"Staff were very friendly with me too, which helped me find a job on campus. I work in Student Services now. This is a blessing. And Gateway is a blessing in my life. I'm very appreciative of this campus community – it’s so welcoming."
When she’s not in class or working on campus, Debora likes to take part in the exciting extracurricular activities Gateway offers its students.
"I'm one of the officers for the International Club. And as a Latina, I'm part of Latinos Unidos. I’m also part of Gateway Gives Back, the Outdoor Adventure Klub, the Black Student Union as an ally and all sorts of stuff," says Debora.
"I'm busy, but that’s the thing. I appreciate this community here. I'm not just doing things to network. These activities help build a group of friends who can be there for one another. When I need a ride, I have friends I can depend on from these clubs."
Not only has Debora found new friends at Gateway, she's also found a newfound interest in Human Services – her degree program. Today, she looks forward to earning her Human Service Associate degree and continuing her education from there.
"I fell in love with the Human Services program. And when I graduate, I look forward to working on a bachelor degree program elsewhere in psychology. Everything at Gateway is preparing me for this path," says Debora. "I love that the classes help me know what potential careers I might like and what ones I might not like. And I was allowed to explore the subjects I enjoy, like psychotherapy, through courses. That’s helped me narrow in on where I go professionally in my future," says Debora.
"I feel like I'm getting prepared for my future inside and outside of the classroom. I love and appreciate everything I've been offered here at Gateway. It feels like home."