I was accepted into NYU, but chose a community college certification instead. Being debt-free was more important than prestige.

"This spring, my dreams came true: I was accepted to a tech-focused master's program at New York University for Fall 2025. After breaking into the tech industry, I thought this would be the next right step. I had been hopeful about receiving financial aid or scholarships, but none came through. I initially tried to convince myself that the $80,000 tuition was somehow manageable."

"But my excitement started shifting to anxiety when I realized my only option was taking out student loans. I couldn't justify adding more debt to what I already owed from undergrad, especially for a degree that didn't guarantee immediate career advancement after graduation. That's when I started questioning if I was chasing prestige or purpose. So I made a surprising choice instead: I enrolled in a community college certification program."

"While applying to NYU, I also started exploring ways to earn extra income and reconnect with community work. Interpreting has always been a part of my identity through past volunteer work, personal projects, and as the daughter of a Mexican immigrant. My passion for using my bilingual skills in meaningful ways led me to research new interpreting opportunities. While many organizations accept community-level credentials, most courtroom settings especially demand state-certified professionals."

Acceptance to a tech-focused master's at New York University carried an $80,000 tuition requiring student loans. Financial aid and scholarships did not materialize, making additional debt untenable after existing undergraduate loans. The cost-benefit of prestige versus purpose led to enrolling in a local community college legal interpreter certification costing $450. The fast-track credential provides quicker entry to paid work without accruing more debt. Interpreting stems from volunteer work, personal projects, and identity as the daughter of a Mexican immigrant. Many organizations accept community-level credentials, though courtroom roles demand state certification, prompting pursuit of approved training and licensing for income and social impact.

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