The quote “Strength and growth come only through continuous effort and struggle” may have come from self-help author Napoleon Hill, but it certainly epitomizes the approach that Ms. Esperiza Kimble (affectionately known as Carmela) has taken to achieve her academic goals. Arriving in the United States from the Philippines at age 17, seeking a better life for herself and her daughter, Carmela had to overcome many obstacles—challenges that included poverty, depression, and self-doubt. But she remained resilient, enrolling at Merritt College and working first in the bookstore, and later in the library. Determined to reach her goals, she successfully landed a permanent classified position as a Senior Library Technician and kept pressing forward academically. And now she just received word of her acceptance to University of California, Davis as a transfer student. Congratulations Carmela, and best wishes on your continued success as an AGGIE!!

This article was included in the May 10, 2023 Merritt College President's Report. To view the full report, click here.