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 Elisha Mac Gregor, a Psychology major who plans to transfer in 2025.
Learn more about her story below.
Why did you choose ACC?
I moved to America from Canada in December 2022, and as someone who was new to the American system, I found it challenging to navigate a new culture and society since I didn’t know anybody here. So, I chose Austin Community College because it offered me an open door where I could begin to build a foundation, both academically and socially. ACC stood out as a place where I could access resources to help me integrate into the community while also receiving a quality education.
What has your experience been like as a Hispanic/Latinx student here?
I feel like I can be myself and celebrate my accent, y el que no me entienda que lea los subtitles.
How do you celebrate your heritage in your daily life?
I proudly carry my Latin heritage in my daily life by embodying the happiness and alegria that Hispanics are known for. I celebrate it every single day by bringing alegría, amor, y energia positiva to every ACC department I visit. I carry the spirit of my culture with me in the way I interact with everyone, whether it’s through a warm sonrisa, a friendly conversation, or helping to empoderar others.
What has your experience been with the Ascender program?
My experience with the Ascender program has truly been life-changing. It provided me with the support, community, and resources I needed to thrive during my freshman year. The program not only helped me navigate college life but also connected me with mentors and peers who share similar cultural backgrounds and experiences. It gave me a sense of belonging and the confidence to push through challenges. This program truly transformed my college experience and set me up for success both academically and personally.
What are some ways ACC can support Hispanic students?
ACC can better support Hispanic students by investing more money in culturally relevant programs such as Ascender that cultivate a sense of belonging and really set the community at ACC for success.
What does Hispanic Heritage mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage to me is empoderamiento, cutura y unidad. It’s a moment when we celebrate our roots, honor where we come from and keeps us unified. It’s a moment to celebrate our stories and achievements as culture that have been passed down through generations, shaping who we are today.
What are your future goals, and what is one thing you have achieved here that you are proud of?
My future goals are transferring to university next year and continuing to represent my Hispanic culture with excellence and discipline. One of the things I’m proud of is winning Ascender Student of The Month May 2024, Outstanding Ascender Award 2024, Volunteer of The Year 2024, and Thrive Award 2024.
How can people celebrate Hispanic heritage during this time?
They can continue celebrating by embracing who they are and where they came from. By honoring the beauty of diversity and elevating voices that have shaped and continue to enrich our society. And by remembering that together, we can create a world where cultural pride is celebrated and shared, inspiring generations to come.