Three years ago, Karla arrived in the United States from Peru, bringing with her a background in journalism, a passion for learning, and a determination to build a new future for herself and her family.

Today, Karla is a student at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), working toward a certificate in education while also working as a family liaison with Fairfax County Public Schools.

For Karla, returning to school was about more than earning another credential. It was about creating new opportunities and gaining the knowledge and skills to make a difference in the lives of students and families.

“NOVA gave me the tools I needed to navigate the American education system,” Karla shared.

Now in her second year at NOVA, Karla is completing her final semester of her education certificate. Her goal is to continue her education at George Mason University, where she plans to pursue a master’s degree and ultimately become an educational counselor.

Along the way, Karla has found more than an education at NOVA. She has found a community.

She describes the diversity of NOVA’s classrooms as one of the most meaningful parts of her experience the opportunity to learn alongside students of different ages and backgrounds, exchanging perspectives and experiences.

One class in particular, public speaking with Professor Donald Smith, left a lasting impression.

For Karla, those conversations reinforced the idea that learning doesn't have an age limit. She continues to challenge herself, pursue her goals, and invest in her future.

Scholarship support has helped make that possible.

While balancing work, family, and her studies, the financial assistance Karla has received has helped ease the burden of paying for college and allowed her to focus more fully on her education. Receiving a scholarship through NOVA’s Giving Day initiative was meaningful.

“It made me very happy and very emotional,” Karla shared. “It motivated me to keep going.”

The recognition also strengthened her commitment to her studies. While Karla has always taken her education seriously, she said receiving the scholarship made her feel an even greater responsibility to continue doing her best.

For students like Karla, donor support can make the difference between simply hoping to continue their education and having the opportunity to do so.

“Thank you for giving us these opportunities,” Karla shared. “They are very valuable for people who are working and trying to continue their education.”

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