Embracing challenges and growing with them
Graduate Profile: Oraia Jaramillo
Oraia Jaramillo came to Governors State University (GovState) to advance her career and did it all while working full-time as a teacher and raising a family.
As a student of the Master of Arts in Educational Administration - Principal Leadership program, Oraia discovered a new-found passion for advocating for underserved student populations and programs, and helping adults become more reflective educators.
As graduation quickly approaches, Oraia looks forward to growing even more in her new leadership role and reflects on her GovState journey that brought her to this moment.
GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to Governors State University?
Oraia: Governors State University is convenient for taking classes near my home and is affordable. I have also been very impressed with the quality of the courses offered.
GovState Newsroom: What song will always remind you of this time in your life?
Oraia: The song that will always remind me of this time in my life is “You Gotta Be” by Des’ree. It’s a throwback from the 90s but sometimes we all need a reminder that no matter what challenges or obstacles we may face, we have the strength and resilience to overcome them.
GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?
Oraia: I started my leadership program with the goals of advancing my career and working towards systemic change within our school system. As I have progressed through the program, I have found a passion in advocating for underserved student populations and programs, as well as helping adults become more reflective educators who see the value in constantly learning and growing for their students.
This fall I will transition to a full-time leadership role in my district. I look forward to the opportunity to continue developing EL and Bilingual Education programs, as well as serving as an Early Childhood Coordinator, and being directly involved in the professional learning of staff.
GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?
Oraia: Stay curious and open-minded. Explore new subjects, perspectives, and ideas both inside and outside your field of study. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Stay resilient in the face of challenges, learn from failures, and keep moving forward with determination and perseverance.