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Our
Students: Elfina
Kalemsa
As a former Miss Hopi for 2003-2004, Elfina Kalemsa, has served as an
ambassador for the Hopi people, and has had many wonderful and exciting
experiences. Although she was afforded this opportunity, education has
remained a priority for her.
As she pursues her Associates Degree in Applied Science in Radiology
at Gateway Community College, Elfina says that the hardest part so far
has been trying to decipher what doctor's have written, she says, "they
have writing like kindergartners", and also getting ready to do
clinicals. She recognizes that in order for her to have better job opportunities,
and to improve herself, it is important to pursue a higher education.
When asked what advice would she give to fellow students she said, "Focus
on your ambitions and try not to get sidetracked. Being away at school
is full of excitement, but try and stick to your studies." As for
parents she knows it is tough for them to let their children go, but
to still provide support through the student's process of growing up.
As a recipient of Hopi Tribe Grants & Scholarship Program (HTGSP)
funding Elfina is very grateful to all of the donors to the Hopi Education
Endowment Fund (HEEF). Since she is not eligible for the Federal Pell
Grant, the Hopi tribal tuition and book scholarship she receives helps
to ease her financial burden. If she had not been a recipient, she stated,
"It would be harder on my parents and me because I would have to
find additional money to pay for school." To donors Elfina would
like to say, "Askwali (Thank You), for the generous donations you
provide for we are the future or our Hopi people. It will be our responsibility
to help our people whether it be in professions such as healthcare,
business, and construction."
Elfina is from the village of Sichomovi and a member of the Roadrunner
clan. Her parents are Eldon and Helena Kalemsa, both of whom are healthcare
professionals at the Hopi Health Care Center.
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