Don’t Be Afraid To Try. The First Step Is Always The Hardest.

First Gen graduate Milena Marrero says this accomplishment is a triumph for her family.

Milena Marrero, 28, came to the United States from Colombia after her family moved to Louisiana three years ago.

Initially dealing with a language barrier, Marrero took a leap and decided to enroll in college. She knew it would be challenging, but decided it was worth it as she looked to her future.

When thinking about navigating the college scenario, Marrero said, “Don’t be afraid to try. The first step is always the hardest.”

And, Marrero took that hard first step, and enrolled at BRCC to prepare for her future.

A first-generation college student, she had to take a course to learn the English language before officially enrolling at BRCC in 2020. After taking the course, she chose to study Entertainment Technology, due to how broad the field is and the growth of the film industry in Louisiana.

BRCC’s Entertainment Technologies program has grown tremendously in recent years, and prepares students for immediate entry into the Louisiana entertainment industry. Students learn about media production and the structures of the film, interactive digital media (web development), and audio recording/engineering. 

She has a strong desire to work on the production side of the film industry.

Marrero said she ultimately chose BRCC due to how everyone made her feel welcome and the size of the college. She is graduating with honors and was recently inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) organization, which is the nation’s largest leadership honor society.

When reflecting on her time at the College, she credits the Office of Student Life staff for helping her get settled at BRCC.

Marrero stated that she is proud to be a BRCC graduate and that it was very important for her and her family to achieve success coming from another country. 

“Graduating is a triumph that you and your family will always carry,” she added.