June Alumni Spotlight: Emely Zavala (John F. Kennedy High School)

Emely is a 2018 graduate of Towson University, receiving her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education/Special Education. 

We spoke to Emely about her journey and here is what she had to say:

“I am a daughter of two Salvadoran immigrants. My parents came to this country for a better life. They had lived through El Salvador's civil war and did not come from wealthy families. My father began to work from the young age of 5 and did not continue his education past third grade. He came to this country at the age of 15 and began working right away. My mother, who came when she was 14 years old, was able to graduate high school in Silver Spring, MD. They dreamed of having a family and giving their children more than what they had or accomplished. 

After graduating high school, I went to Montgomery College to study education. I chose to teach in order to help students like my brother who struggled with learning. At a young age, I wished to have had the tools to support him in his learning. Unfortunately, I was not able to help him, but now I am able to work with students who are in similar situations. In addition, as a fluent Spanish speaker, I am able to help close the barrier that can be created in the school community when English is not the family's first language.

I am the first to graduate with a bachelor's degree in my family and currently it is my third year working in an elementary school in Montgomery County. It is one of the most rewarding jobs. It is amazing to see the growth students make from the beginning to the end of the school year! 

My favorite memory of Liberty's Promise is the team atmosphere. My program officer was there to help you grow and achieve as a team. Liberty's promise assisted me in embracing my background, giving me confidence and the tools needed to continue my education after high school. They helped us learn about different scholarships and resources available to us as students from different backgrounds. 

​My advice to youth and alumni is to work hard. You don't have to be the "smartest" or "best," you simply need to work hard and be determined. Great things don't come easy, they come with sacrifice. You will come across moments where you will want to quit, but if you push past those moments/thoughts, you will see it was all worth it in the end.”