Teyba Esselman

As an adolescent, my uneducated Father always motivated me.  He didn’t have any physical or mental disability, but coming from a culture (Ethiopia) that did not give value to education, especially in my father’s generation, he never went to go to school as a child.  I finished high school back in Ethiopia and took a year long training to become and elementary teacher which I did for 2 ½ years.  At the same time I was trying to join a nursing school.

After coming to the United States, I pursued pre-dentistry courses in college.  After moving to Washington I decided to go back to my dream of being a nurse.  I am very happy about my decision.  I am enjoying the program and I plan to continue going for a higher degree in nursing.  I love school. 

My husband also plays a significant role in keeping me motivated.  I heard many discouraging comments from people from my culture.  Most of them believe that I should have more babies, work more, and help my family and relatives more.  I feel bad about my little help for my family compared to others who work more, but know I will get to these in a better way at some point in my life.

Every time I read in the campus newsletter about someone who is a minority especially women with higher education I feel more motivated.  I always dream about me becoming well educated and becoming a good role model for my brothers and sisters, my daughter and my second child (future).  I want to prove to those who think I am wasting time that I was not.  I want to help them follow in my footsteps. 

Tebya is currently a student at Highline Community College.