Dihelin is from the West African country of Togo, where she studied sociology at the University of Togo before moving to the United States. She left her home in search of a better life and to work toward her goal of helping others by becoming a nurse or doctor. Dihelin took ESOL classes for two years through Catholic Charities and Worcester Adult Learning Center. She then enrolled in a Certified Nursing Assistant (CAN) program. It was a very challenging time but due to hard work and tremendous support from her teachers, she completed the program and passed the State Exam. Becoming a CNA was a significant accomplishment in fulfilling a promise to her now deceased mother to study hard, make her proud and pursue her goal of becoming a nurse or doctor.
Dihelin achieved another milestone when she enrolled in Quinsigamond Community College. She realizes she has a long way to go but is determined to reach her goal of helping others as a healthcare professional. Her advice is to never give up on your dreams and to believe in yourself. She credits her wonderful ESOL teachers, CNA instructors and her dad for encouraging and motivating her. She is grateful that the First Literacy Scholarship will help her pay for tuition and books, allowing her to keep moving forward toward her goals.