Nuri Ramirez Sanchez, a first-generation Mexican-American, was born in Prosser, Wash. After living with her grandparents until the age of 13, Ramirez Sanchez was placed with a foster family.
After high school she worked a variety of office positions and owned her own clothing boutique in Sunnyside. When her store closed due to the economic downturn in 2019, Ramirez Sanchez decided to return to school.
“[Returning to] school has been a blessing for me,” states Ramirez Sanchez. “[It has allowed] me to better myself and pursue my dream career.”
She is pursuing a bachelor of applied science degree in teacher education at Yakima Valley College and has overcome many obstacles to graduate after the winter quarter in 2022.
“I am a single mother of two daughters and one son and I had three foster daughters placed with me so I had a 2, 3, 4, 7, 11, and 14-year-old [while pursuing my degree]. I also lost my job at the time and was juggling to balance all the different situations,” she continued.
She’s thankful for the support received from YVC and has been involved with the TRIO Student Support Services program. She also received support through financial aid and scholarships.
“[The support received from YVC] has made it possible for me to pay my bills, focus on my education and be able to continue this journey. Without it I would not be able to progress and better myself,” stated Ramirez Sanchez.
Ultimately, she plans to continue living and working in the Yakima Valley and hopes to help inspire her children about the importance of education.
“College is a must in order to be successful long term. It’s something that with dedication can be done. It doesn’t matter if you work and have children or are in your early 30s. It can be done, I am proof.”