Enumclaw High School sophomore Marlen Hernandez has recently been accepted into the Washington World Fellows Domestic Advocates Program. This two-year summer immersive program takes place at Eastern Washington University, allowing participants to study the Spanish language, cultural integration and cross-cultural exchange, and engage in college preparation. Acceptance into the program comes as no surprise to those who know Marlen, with her dedication and passion shining through in all endeavors. Nominated by her Spanish 1 Teacher, Kim Hatzenbeler, Marlen's selection for this program underscores her noteworthy abilities and potential.
Initially, Marlen's parents were hesitant about the application, but their concerns soon gave way to support as they realized the incredible opportunity it presented for their daughter. Coming from a home where Spanish is the primary language, Marlen's journey to proficiency in English began at a bilingual school in California before her family relocated to Enumclaw in third grade. Alongside her older sister, Marlen often serves as a translator for her parents, highlighting the importance of her multicultural background in everyday life.
For Marlen, participating in the Washington World Fellows Domestic Advocates Program represents more than just an academic opportunity—it's a chance to bridge cultural gaps and expand her horizons. Fluent in both Spanish and English, she understands the richness of embracing multiple languages and cultures. She eagerly anticipates immersing herself in the program, excited to explore the nuances and differences between her upbringing and those of her peers, especially those from the sister program in Spain.
As Marlen embarks on this journey, she recognizes the rarity of the opportunity before her. With a blend of anticipation and determination, she looks forward to soaking up the wealth of knowledge and experiences that await her. The enthusiasm is palpable as she reflects on the significance of it all, remarking, "Not a lot of people have this opportunity. If not now, when would I ever get to do something like this again?" Marlen's inclusion in the program not only reflects her individual merit but also serves as a testament to the value of diversity and inclusion in educational initiatives.
You can learn more about the Washington World Fellows Domestic Advocates Program at https://www.waworldfellows.org/washington-world-fellows-domestic-advocates