One Airman’s story: Fighting through Obstacles

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Perla Tapia Cordero
  • 69th Fighter Squadron
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, ARIZ. --  My Story: Growing up I always dreamed of continuing my education and having a professional career.  Ever since I can remember, I have always worked hard and strived for excellence in everything I did.  Because of my academic achievements in high school, I was awarded the Presidential Scholarship, which gave me the opportunity to earn my associates degree from any Maricopa Community College for free. 

I knew that my parents could not afford to pay for my education so this was a huge relief and tremendous opportunity for my family and me.  Not only was I the first one to graduate from high school out of my family; I would now be the first to attend college. 

After completing my first semester of college in the fall of 2006, Proposition 300 passed in Arizona which affected all undocumented students in the state of Arizona.  The bill prevented all undocumented students from receiving any type of financial aid and they were required to pay out-of-state tuition. 

Sadly, I was one of the many undocumented students affected by this proposition which led me to discontinue my education.  However, after much persistence I received my permanent resident card and I decided to join the Air Force Reserve to make the naturalization process go faster.  I needed to help legalize my family since I was afraid they would get deported.  Little did I know the sacrifice I made in 2010 would only bring blessings into my life. 

While at Air Force basic training, I was recognized as the top female in Physical Training and was also an honor graduate.  Then in 2011, I became a naturalized citizen and in 2013, I was recognized as the Airman of the Year for 10th Air Force.  I didn't accomplish this by myself; I have to give many thanks to my family, my friends, my unit and most importantly all of the great mentors who have supported me throughout the years.

It took nine years to achieve my education goal. But I have defeated the obstacle I was faced with back in 2006. 

I finally had the privilege of walking across the stage May 15, 2015 and received the diploma I have worked so hard to get over the past four years.  Not only did I receive my Bachelor's degree in chemistry, I also had the honor of wearing the Magna Cum Laude honors cord.  It is true that America is the home of opportunities and it is most visible when you accomplish them yourself.  After all that I have been through I decided to become a teacher so I can teach my students the beauty of all of the great things one can accomplish when we are determined and disciplined.   

What's next for me? Well my next goal is to become a commissioned officer through a deserving Airman program within the Air Force Reserve.  Also, I plan on completing the Educational Leadership Master's program through Arizona State University.  My vision is to continue to lead and inspire others so I can make the community I live in a better place.