Rosaura Gonzalez de Gutierrez is graduating on May 1, something she said would not be possible without scholarships. She has received several scholarships during her years at Wayne State University, including the Jean W. Rockwell Endowed Scholarship, Edna Crosson Endowed Scholarship, and Larry A. and Irma R. Antila Endowed Memorial Scholarship. "They are very important because otherwise I wouldn't be able to graduate," said Gonzalez. "Especially this last year. I was about to drop out because of my financial hardship. With the Crossing the Finish Line Scholarship, I was able to stay afloat. I am so thankful."

Gonzalez is a double major who will receive two degrees at commencement: a bachelor of science in elementary education and a bachelor of arts in romance languages. She is active on campus as a member of the Golden Key International Honor Society, the Black Educators Student Association and the National Association for Bilingual Education. In her free time, she likes to read, write, exercise and visit new places.

Gonzalez said she has most enjoyed her Spanish and bilingual/bicultural education courses, but she could not name just one favorite professor. "I was able to build a connection with so many of them," said Gonzalez. "Even if I am not taking classes with them, they will answer my questions and provide resources."

A defining moment for Gonzalez was when she discovered her talent for writing in Spanish. In 2012, she won first place in a Spanish poetry contest, and in 2013, she was recognized with an Outstanding Essay in Spanish award by the Department of Classical and Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures.

After graduation, Gonzalez plans to teach at the elementary level. She eventually would like to become a professor of Spanish or bicultural studies.

Learn more about how you can support students like Rosaura.

(Posted April 14, 2014)