A World of Possibilities

A mother and wife, Alicia Vizuet ‘16 proudly rocks the title of nontraditional student. She earned a bachelor’s degree in world languages and cultures with a Spanish concentration. A native of Mexico, Alicia fondly thinks of her time at home, “I love Spanish. I was born in Mexico City and I was an elementary English teacher there.” Once she moved to the United States, Alicia started a bachelor’s degree program in Texas but delayed completing her degree when her daughter was born. As time progressed, Alicia moved up to the northeast and became a certified medical assistant interning at Greater Lawrence Family Health Center. During her internship, Alicia’s bilingual ability was valuable in communicating with patients. Motivated by her family, she decided to consider Salem State University, a local school she often passed in her new hometown of Salem. It was at an open house where Alicia decided to commit to the university. “Professor (Elizabeth) Blood was so welcoming to us and treated us so well [at the open house],” she recalls. So why did Alicia choose to study her native language? She was drawn to the chance to study Spanish literature and learn how to apply her skills to different careers. Her thesis was as unique as she is, focusing on the film Babel, the director of which was from her original hometown of Mexico City. Now, with her thesis behind her and degree in hand, Alicia looks forward to pursuing a master’s degree. Her family continues to encourage her to push herself and pursue her dreams.

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