Julie Alemán Rivera, a native of Vega Alta, began her university journey facing a major challenge: she did not speak English fluently. However, her determination led her to learn it on her own, while attending classes and completing assignments. "I believe this is an important point to motivate other students. They shouldn’t feel intimidated or think, ‘I won’t be able to do it,’ because they absolutely can," says Julie.
Her path to success was accompanied by the support of the Kinesis Foundation. Since she was 16, when she applied to the Bright Stars program on her family’s recommendation, Julie has benefited from the organization's comprehensive support. Kinesis not only alleviated the financial concerns of her education but also provided mentorship and key guidance in choosing the university that allowed her to fully developed. Something particularly remarkable about Julie is that she did not master the English language when she started college, but she taught herself through her classes and assignments.
"I believe this is an important point to further motivate students so they don't feel intimidated or see it as an 'I can't do it' situation because they definitely can," Julie emphasizes.
At Marquette University, Julie studied Corporate Communication and Advertising, earning distinctions such as being named to the Dean’s List in her first year. She was also accepted into prestigious institutions like Arizona State University, Providence College, and The Catholic University, among others.
"Kinesis helped me become more outgoing in professional spaces and embrace new experiences. They taught me to consider financial and strategic matters—not just for myself but also to support my parents in this process," Julie shares.
Even after completing her studies, Kinesis remains a part of her life. The organization continues to invite her to events and consider her in its plans, something for which she is deeply grateful. Now, as a professional in the industry, Julie has not only become a content creator but also a role model for other young people.
"My advice to other students is to take the step, even if it feels uncomfortable. It's worth discovering what we're capable of. I always say: ‘With fear, but moving forward; without fear, but moving forward.’"
Julie Alemán Rivera is proof of how perseverance, self-taught learning, and Kinesis support can transform lives. Her story inspires others not to give up in the face of challenges and shows that, with effort and support, dreams are within reach.
Join today and be part of this lasting impact on the lives of our youth.
