My name is Dayanara Quezada-Taylor. I was born in the Dominican Republic, and raised in Venezuela. I lived in Caracas, and finished my Bachelor degree in the University College of Caracas. My family moved from the Dominican Republic before the political struggles started. I –then- worked for a wonderful Swiss-sponsored organization located at the Superior Institute of Agriculture. Through this institution, I participated in an Ohio State University International Study Program. Because of this program, I became interested in studying in the United States. After obtaining a 5-year student visa, I enrolled in Capital University’s intensive ESL program. Upon completion of this program, I enrolled in OSU’s Continuing Education. I recently earned a Master in Arts, with a major in Latin American Culture and Literature, and 50 credits hours of Spanish at the undergraduate level from the Department of Spanish and Portuguese.

Coming from a Spanish speaking country, I have found how difficult it is to become part of a different society. I have learned that we have to speak, write, listen and read good English. Also, we have to proof our knowledge and experiences communicating them in English. It is hard for those who come from countries where English is not a requirement, but an elective, at institutions of higher learning. In many cases, Latino/Hispanic people come to this country in search, not only of a better quality of life --because of unsatisfying living conditions in their countries--, but to improve their education.

As a professional, I have met many educated people from all over the world who come to the United States to pursue their studies, to improve their experiences, and to enhance their knowledge. Even though that, many of us have to start from zero to adapt to the system. Because of this, and because I know how hard it is ‘to be’ here, I invite all Latino/Hispanic undergraduate students and graduate students to continue their education to help improve our culture and heritage. We need a chance to modify the ‘minority’ definition of ‘not to be’ and we can do it by succeeding. We can contribute to the melting pot with our knowledge, cultures and traditions. Additionally, we can show that we are prepared to play a role in any business, academic or government position.

I am proud of migrating to this country to continue my education. This has been a journey because of the language barrier and the differences in traditions. Right now, I am very satisfied to represent my culture and to teach my language in this society. I encourage you to work hard to finish your studies. You will see the results, and they will be the wonderful pay-off for all your efforts.

During this journey, I met my husband, Matthew C. Taylor, who believed in me. His parents, Dr. Calvin and Nancy Taylor, also supported me. My mom, Katy Contreras, supported me, attended my graduation and shared with me this special event. I am very glad to share this article with ¿Qué Pasa? magazine, and Mr. Victor Mora who also supported me, and believed in me. Also, I want to thank my adviser Prof. Ileana Rodriguez, Professors Lúcia Costigan and Ignacio Corona who valued my intellectual capacity and hard work. Good luck to everybody!