Austin Community College District (ACC) celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. The month recognizes the history, culture, traditions, and contributions of people and their ancestors with Hispanic and Latino heritage.
ACC is spotlighting our amazing students and alumni throughout the month. One of those students is Jose Arce, an International Relations graduate who successfully transferred to the University of Texas at Austin in fall 2023.
Learn more about his story below.
Why did you choose ACC?
I chose ACC because it was a place that received me with open arms and believed in my dreams when many schools did not. It also supported me financially with a scholarship.
What has your experience been like as a Hispanic/Latinx student here?
As a Hispanic student, I have felt the most at home at ACC and with the Ascender Program. I truly love how welcoming and inclusive the people are at ACC, and how much diversity there is in the school.
How do you celebrate your heritage in your daily life?
On a daily basis, I drink coffee that comes from the mountainous regions of Honduras, where my family comes from.
What has your experience been with the Ascender program?
My experience with Ascender has been the best. I love how welcoming the people are, I love the mission of the program and I love how inclusive and supportive they are each step of the way throughout the college journey. I can truly say that I would have not been the successful student I am today without the support of Ascender.
What are some ways ACC can support Hispanic students?
I think by supporting programs such as Ascender and the Amigos clubs. ACC can keep supporting the mission of the programs and keep welcoming Hispanic students. Additionally, by providing food services and financial aid support. The college supports students despite their unique circumstances.
What does Hispanic Heritage mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage means remembering my culture, language, and history despite being thousands of miles away. It means connecting with others of similar backgrounds and celebrating our differences and uniqueness as a Hispanic community.
What are your future goals, and what is one thing you have achieved here that you are proud of?
While at ACC, with Ascender, I’ve had the opportunity to learn and provide help to others. This has made me happy, as I love helping students and learning how to help others. With this in mind, my future goal is to work for the Pan American Health Organization in Central America.
How can people celebrate Hispanic heritage during this time?
The easiest way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month is by eating the food that we already eat from our culture and being proud to speak our native language.