Weathering the Storm
"At HCC, I didn't just find refuge, I found my passion." – Marcos Figueroa
Marcos Figueroa '24, a Communications, Media, and Theater Arts major from Holyoke and ALANA ambassador, was one of three student speakers at HCC's first-ever Fall Graduate Reception on Wednesday, Nov. 29, where he gave the following remarks. In the spring, he will attend Emerson College in Boston while working as a videojournalist for WGBZ-CBS Boston.
'As I stand here today, I'm reminded of a journey that began amidst the aftermath of Hurricane Maria – a high-end category hurricane that made landfall in Puerto Rico with maximum sustained winds of 155 mph. During that time, I was on the verge of graduating with a degree in criminal justice from Universidad Interamericana when the storm disrupted everything. It was a challenging time, but fate led me here to Holyoke, Mass., and to the doors of Holyoke Community College. I must say, I am extremely grateful.
Here, I didn't just find refuge; I found my passion. Photography and cinematography became my new path – a discovery that reshaped my life. Adapting to a new culture wasn't easy, but it was through this journey that I met incredible individuals who became my guiding lights.
Saúl Caban (director of ALANA Men in Motion), Lindsey Pare (Student Engagement clerk), and Luis Carrisquillo (TRIO academic counselor) – mentors who saw potential in me, guiding me through this transformative phase. They showed me that anything is possible and why it's crucial to be an active part of this nurturing community. I urge any current and future students to seek out academic and mentoring support from programs like ALANA Men in Motion and TRIO Student Support Services. Getting connected and involved with Student Activities and support programs really contributed to an enriching campus experience.
HCC offers a wealth of opportunities and has some of the most amazing people I have ever met. At HCC, I experienced profound growth. The professors, whose teachings were more than just lessons but illustrations of knowledge, inspired me. I applied my skills, honed my craft, and it led me to opportunities as a video journalist, exploring captivating stories through my lens.
Holyoke has not just been a place of learning but a community that embraced me. Today, I stand not just as a graduate, but as someone deeply connected to this place. I am grateful for the lessons learned and the passion instilled in me by these incredible individuals.
As I step into the next chapter of my life, ready to continue my career in video journalism, and prepare to advance my studies in film, I carry with me the teachings, the support, and the profound sense of belonging from Holyoke Community College.
I pledge to continue growing, challenging myself, and contributing to the community that has given me so much. Thank you, HCC, for being the catalyst in my transformation. I am proud to be part of a community that helps people like me overcome the storms."
Read the other speeches from HCC's first Fall Graduate Reception:
Alannah Milgros Brunt - Find Your Community
Angela Tindell-Gula – Not Just My Degree
See more photos in our Facebook photo album
In the News: HCC holds first Fall Graduate Reception, Western Mass News
PHOTO: Marcos Figueroa speaks at HCC's first Fall Graduate Reception.
