If I could sit down for a jugo (juice) with my 5-year-old self, I know she would be a little shy at first. She would be wearing one of her favorite colorful dresses with her hair in two pigtails, and she would order apple juice because it was always her favorite. Looking at her, I would still see so much of myself. We are both quiet, caring, and determined.
She would probably ask, “Did we ever go to college?” and “What is Washington, DC like?” I think the biggest surprise for her would be to learn that we spent the summer living and working in Washington, DC. We worked at UnidosUS and we contributed to projects that support families and communities like our own. We were able to build confidence, strengthen our professional skills. Our internship this summer showed us that even behind the scenes work can make a meaningful impact. I would tell her that we met people from across the country, shared our story, and learned that our voice matters. Growing up in Live Oak, California, that would have seemed impossible for her to imagine.
I would tell her to never doubt herself. The experiences she is having as the daughter of hardworking farmworkers will become one of her greatest strengths. Even when opportunities feel scary, she should take them because they will lead her farther than she ever imagined. I would share with her that one of my favorite parts of the National Ag Families Head Start Association (NAFHSA) internship was connecting with the other interns. Even though we came from different places, many of us shared similar experiences growing up attending Migrant and Seasonal Head Start. The NAFHSA staff also became a second family while we were away from home, always supporting and encouraging us throughout the summer.
Before we finish our drinks, I hope my 5-year-old self will leave knowing that her dreams are possible. I would tell her to keep believing in herself because one day she will realize she is capable of achieving more than she ever imagined. As the summer comes to an end, I am realizing how far I have come. As a former Migrant and Seasonal Head Start student, I never imagined I would one day represent the program that helped shape my childhood. Being away from my family, especially my son, was one of the hardest parts of this experience, but it reminded me why I am working so hard to build a better future for both of us.
Blog Author: Lizet Rentería-Romero – Class of 2026
Published on August 3, 2026