Real $tories Episode 61: Maria  

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Maria is the embodiment of tenacity. When she applied for college, she was informed of her ineligibility due to her immigration status at the time. Refusing to take “no” for an answer, she became one of the first two people in her home state to get accepted with her status. However, she still faced the challenge of paying her way through college without financial aid. In surpassing this hurdle, she empowered others in similar circumstances.   

Maria became the first person in her family to own a home and started her own small business shortly after welcoming a son. Her experience in marketing led her to GreenPath, where she now utilizes her skills for a mission she cares deeply about.   

Learn more about her story in her own wordsin her own words.

Key Moments

Key Moments 

2:50 Maria reflects on her time growing up in Mexico and how her family approached money. 

6:54 She remembers the difficulty of getting accepted into college because of her immigration status. 

10:08 She strategizes paying for college without financial aid. 

11:38 Her role working for a bank opens her eyes to the obstacles faced by the Hispanic community. 

14:38 She helps other students and parents who share the challenge of getting into college.  

18:13 Maria buys a home shortly after graduation, becoming the first person in her family to accomplish this goal. 

19:48 She gives birth to her son and starts her own business. 

27:03 Maria describes her experience starting her role at GreenPath. 

29:20 She discusses her financial goals, including investing in retirement. 

34:48 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes from Maria’s story.