Student Success Stories
Melina Jones
Melina Jones, a senior at UVU studying political science with an emphasis in international relations from Nuevo Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico, came to the United States after graduating high school to attend college and get the "American experience." Her parents told her it would be to her advantage to be not only bilingual, but bicultural as well.
But finding the right school was just as difficult as adjusting to the different food, music, people and fast-pace American lifestyle. When she first moved to the United States her father advised her to recognize that Mexican culture is a culture of 'being' and American culture is a culture of 'doing.' Over time, Jones came to realize the good characteristics of both cultures and appreciate her unique heritage.
Jones spent her first two years of studies at Eastern Arizona College where she earned an associate degree. She then moved to Utah to attend Paul Mitchell the School, where she received a cosmetology license. After which she decided to return to her college studies.
She tried out a few different universities, but felt they didn't fit her educational needs. "After being at the second university for almost two weeks, I withdrew from all my classes, literally packed my stuff into my car and drove back to Utah because I felt that I would find what I was looking for in a college education at UVU," said Jones. "I haven't looked back since."
Last year, Jones applied to be a tour guide for the summer in Mexico City at Los Pinos, the official residence of Mexico's First Family. After her interview, she was told to return the following year for the position. But a few days later, she received a phone call and was informed that the First Lady had an event the next day and wanted Jones to accompany her. This eventually led Jones to an internship for Margarita Zavala Gómez Del Campo, the First Lady of Mexico, in the summers of 2007 and 2008.
As an intern, Jones had the opportunity to occasionally travel with Zavala to other countries and meet political dignitaries. She also assisted Zavala in her duties by translating, attending meetings and events and doing office work.
Just being here has been such an amazing experience! I've learned so much and am so grateful for having been given such a wonderful opportunity,” said Jones.
A highlight for her was flying on Mexico’s Air Force One with the President and the First Lady on their state visit to Spain to meet with the King and Queen.
Jones credits her family, UVU and her professors at the university for helping her onto the international relations path. "I don't feel my experience at UVU would have been the same without the influence and example of Dr. Odell Miner, who was the reason why I decided to major in political science," said Jones. She also credits Professors Dennis Farnsworth, Baktybek Abdrisaev and Sara Ulloa for her success.
I love UVU and have since my very first day," said Jones. "I couldn't be more happy and my parents couldn't be more happy for me that I found the right 'fit' of university for me. ¡Viva UVU!"
Jones plans to graduate from UVU in fall 2008. She hopes to work in her field of study for more experience before furthering her education.