Hello and welcome! My name is Zuleima Velez, and I am pursuing my Bachelors of Applied Science in Business and Organizational Leadership at Valencia College, and my major is in Human Resource Management. I am passionate about building strong social connections and my goal is to develop and manage a team I can be proud of.

My family and I moved from Lares, Puerto Rico to the U.S in 2006. Despite the tough transition we are thrilled to be part of a community that honors its heritage.

Growing up I faced a challenging childhood with limited educational resources in Puerto Rico. Due to mental health and academic issues I started college at age 29. I'm what some might call a late bloomer. Despite this I have made lasting impressions in my life through meeting the greatest people you could ever know, and consider myself lucky beyond measure to still have in my life.

I understand how difficult it can be to move up in life when facing a disability. That is why when I achieve my goal of leading a team I will do everything in my power to ensure that my coworkers and employees can thrive and aren't held back by disabilities or academic

challenges.

When I'm not focused on my studies I enjoy drawing, painting, DIY projects, and reading philosophy, self help and science fiction books. I also love camping, hiking, skateboarding and travel. Some favorite places I have been are Chaco Canyon, Lake Tahoe and

Crater Lake.

Your assistance allows me to enjoy these activities and progress academically without worrying about paying outrageous amounts towards school loans. Receiving help through your donations would mean the world to me.

Thank you!