A-B Tech student Rosalyn Estevez Menendez,21, immigrated to the U.S. from Cuba two years ago with her family in search of a better life. After first enrolling in the English Language Acquisition (ELA) program, Menendez was able to build her language skills and gained the confidence to enroll as a full-time student in the transfer program. Her ultimate goal is a BA degree in civil engineering from NC State University. Rosalyn took time out from her bustling schedule to answer some questions for National Hispanic Heritage Month.
What do you love about your country?
What I love most about my country is the people. If someone has only two eggs and you need one, they’ll give it to you. I love the lively streets, the music, the street vendors, and the kids playing. I love the roasted pork on a stick; our mixed religion; and our traditions. But above all, I love how close we are as a family.
What has been difficult about moving to America?
Leaving part of my family, my friends, and my college behind has been hard. I miss surprising [my family and friends] by knocking on their door and saying, 'I’m here!' I miss walking and talking to people in the streets; dancing on Friday nights, and having holiday dinners with family and friends.
What is something you are proud of?
I’m proud of continuing my education in a new country. I’ve overcome the language barrier and refused to let it stand in the way of my goals… I wanted to improve my job performance and communicate without needing a translator. Meeting (Transitional Studies Educational Navigator) Erica Witsell was a turning point. She encouraged me to continue [the college major I’d chosen in Cuba].
How do you stay connected to your Cuban heritage?
My family and I brought our traditions with us. We gather with friends and family on holidays. My mom and I keep the same delicious flavors in our cooking from Cuba. I stay connected through music and classic Cuban movies. We keep in touch with our family in Cuba, and in some ways, we feel the struggles of the economic and political situation even more deeply from here.
What are your hopes for the future after graduating?
I hope to land a great engineering job and eventually start my own business. I want to give my family a better life than they’ve dreamed of giving me. My goal is to use my success to support important causes like education and environmental protection and to make a real difference in the world for future generations.
What does it mean to you to be Cuban?
To me, being Cuban means perseverance, carrying dreams, and the energy to conquer the world. It means a mixture of the cultural power of Spanish and African heritage. It represents resilience and facing adversity with a smile. It means strength, family, and tradition.