Good morning and welcome to the Embassy for one of the last steps on your big journey.

I am sorry that I wasn’t able to attend your Award Ceremony in May at the Museo de Antropologia. I did see most of you on television and enjoyed Angelica’s story very much. Angelica, are you with us today?

I’m so proud of you and what you have accomplished. This experience will be a life-changing one for you as well as for your families and communities. I know that you’ll carry with you so many expectations from others, but what really matters is what you want to make of this opportunity.

When I left Texas, I also worried about the new experience ahead of me and whether I would be successful. But the important thing to remember is that you’re not in this alone. Seek help when you need it, but you’ll find that the experience ahead of you will make you a stronger, more independent person than you ever imagined you could be. In the end you’ll wonder - where did the time go?

When it is time to come back, you’ll have another job ahead of you – sharing your knowledge and experience with your community. Your efforts will make a tangible difference in your communities and inspire others to seek out higher education.

Study hard, but enjoy yourselves.

Focus on your commitment, but explore: new ideas, new places, new skills.

Aim for excellence, but take time for a baseball game, learn to snowboard, eat pizza with friends.

So, strap on those backpacks and gather your courage, but know that you’re not alone – that you go with our heartfelt wishes for success, happiness, and knowledge.

Gracias and buena suerte