Sonja Tellez, ACC biotechnology graduate
It’s an industry that’s growing rapidly in Austin, with thousands of job openings expected over the next few years, but biotechnology isn’t where Sonja Tellez first saw herself.
A high school dropout, Tellez, stepped into the ACC Biotechnology Program feeling intimidated.
“A lot of my classmates already had degrees. They held bachelor’s and master’s and were coming to ACC to get more credentials. Here I was, still taking remedial math,” says Tellez. “But I had come so far already, and I didn’t want to give up. I leaned on my teachers and my husband for support.”
“I knew I needed to make a change, for myself and for my kids.”
After dropping out of school in the 10th grade Tellez worked one odd job after another to provide for her two young children.
“For eight years I worked in fast food and through temp agencies,” says Tellez. “I knew I needed to make a change, for myself and for my kids.”
She set her sights on getting her GED and enrolled at Austin Community College.
Are you ACC? Tell us your story
“Going back to school after so long while still working full time was hard and scary. Once I started though, my confidence grew,” says Tellez.
After earning her GED, Tellez began taking college courses and soon after found ACC’s Biotechnology Program. She took classes every semester for four years before earning an internship with Austin-based XBioTech. They offered her a full-time job by graduation.
“There were times I was ready to throw in the towel, but every struggle was worth it,” admits Tellez. “Not only did I find work that I love, I now have job security. I hope my kids now see the power of an education. I may be the first in my family to earn a college degree, but hopefully I won’t be the last.”
Back to Top
By Linnea Fletcher February 21, 2015 - 4:48 pm
Sonja is an amazing person —I hope her story inspires others to finish their studies.
By Rosalinda Lopez- Joslin February 22, 2015 - 2:55 pm
I am so proud of all the accomplishments my daughter has made.And I believe her story will help other sees that anyone can achieve anything as long as one believes in themselves. Anything is possible. I Love You Sonja.
By Dr. Rodney E. Rohde February 24, 2015 - 4:39 pm
AMEN!! The way to success, I truly believe, is to have a never quit attitude. I tell every student (and my own two children) that high school, college, careers, relationships, etc….are MOSTLY about hard work. I can count so many students that were super smart, but never finish. Our students and children need encouragement, and sometimes to hear things they may not want to hear. YOU, mom, have done a great job and I know you and your family must be so proud. As I tell my graduates, etc….maybe that diploma needs a few more names on it (at least on the back). Congrats and keep on keeping on!!! Doc R. Rohde
By Richard lopez February 22, 2015 - 4:04 pm
Very proud of you. Anything is possible if you put your mind and heart.Tio Richard Lopez.
By Isabel Jaimes February 22, 2015 - 5:29 pm
Great story Sonja! I didn’t know much about your background, but it’s great to know how well you’re doing now. I’m glad for you!! Hope to see you sometime at XBio… (:
By Colby Clear February 23, 2015 - 11:41 am
Great to hear Sonja. You were a huge help to me and others when you worked in the lab. Thanks!
By Dr. Rodney E. Rohde February 23, 2015 - 12:59 pm
Sonja,
What a wonderful story and example you have set for others to follow! Remember, Perseverance, Persistence, Passion, and Prayer will see you through most things in life. Where others quit, you decided to finish the job! Keep up the great work!
http://www.elsevier.com/connect/11-pointers-for-college-success-from-a-professor-and-dad
By Dr. Su February 26, 2015 - 1:02 pm
Sonja was a great student. She even took the time from her busy schedule and wanted to work on project in the department. She was the leader in our Bioman course.
Good luck.