Elizabeth Martinez, Computer Giveaway Winner
Submitted by Michael Ward, Higher Education Servicing Corp. (HESC)

Elizabeth Martinez is a soft-spoken graduate from Tornillo High School in, where else, Tornillo, Texas. Elizabeth qualified for the random drawing for the computer by attending the Texas Guaranteed FAFSA Made Easy videoconference in February 2005 at her high school. Recently, Michael Ward, Outreach Coordinator at HESC, interviewed Ms. Martinez, a week after she was presented her prize.

MW: Tell me, how did you learn about the FAFSA videoconference?
EM: I learned about the teleconference from my high school counselor. There were also posters in the hallways and regular announcements about it were made. Any senior interested in going to college was encouraged to attend.

MW: Was the information from the teleconference useful to you and your parents when it came time to file your FAFSA?
EM: Yes, very helpful.

MW: Congratulations on winning a laptop. What do you think of it?
EM: I’m so happy. I’ve always wanted one. I like to watch movies on it, listen to music, and of course do my homework.

MW: Did you already have a computer of your own?
EM: No, this is my first. It will really help me become more efficient with my time.

MW: What do you mean?
EM: Before I won the computer, when I needed to get a paper done I had to go to the computer lab at school or go to a friend’s house to use their computer. But not anymore, now I do all of my homework from home.

MW: Rate your study habits on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being “What does the word habits mean?” and 10 being “I am a genius and I never need to study.”
EM: I consider myself an 8. I enjoy learning new things.

MW: What or who inspired you to go to college?
EM: My parents. I come from a large family. I have four brothers and four sisters. My parents are always reminding me how hard it is for them, and will be for me without a college education.

MW: Do you have a role model?
EM: No, not really.

MW: What would you like to do after college?
EM: I am studying to earn a degree in social work. Being near my family is important to me so I would like to find a job close to home.

MW: I appreciate your time today, Elizabeth. On behalf of HESC, I want to wish you much success as you begin your college experience.
EM: Thank you, for everything.

Elizabeth Martinez matriculated to El Paso Community College, Mission del Paso campus. She is the first person in her family to attend college and her parents said they are very proud of their daughter.