Photos: Andy Stauffer, Region 10 ESC
A Dream Come True AUTHOR: ARDYS ATTEBERRY Region 10 ESC Communications
M
ISSAR SANGUINO knows firsthand what it takes to make a dream come true.
Sanguino came to the United States with her family at a very young age. Although only seven years old at the time, she had big dreams. Big dreams, however, are often tested by big challenges along the way. One of her first challenges was to learn a new language. “I felt lost and confused that I could not communicate with my teacher,” Sanguino said. Learning English is no small task. Imagine how confusing it must have been, not being able to
9
talk to her teacher. Thankfully, Sanguino was assigned a buddy helper who assisted her during the day. After school, however, was another story. No one in her family spoke English. Determined to do whatever it took to help their daughter succeed, Sanguino’s parents reached out to their community. In doing so, they met neighbors who generously offered to tutor Sanguino. By helping her with her daily homework assignments, she made great progress and was an A and B honor student throughout school and college. Her favorite affirmation to keep her focused on her dream? “Sì, se puede.” Translation? Yes, it can be done. “I learned that it does not matter where you come from that you can still dream and work hard to fulfill your dreams and reach your ultimate goals in life,” Sanguino shared.
