From ESL to Two Degrees: Paola Lintner’s Inspiring Journey

When Paola Lintner walked across the stage at McHenry County College’s commencement ceremony this spring, she was doing something she once never imagined she could do: graduating from a college in the United States.

The moment was a culmination of a journey that began many years earlier, when Lintner moved from Mexico to the United States at age 19.

“I was full of dreams and hope of building a better future for my family,” she said. “Like so many immigrants, I quickly realized it would not be easy, especially without knowing any English.”

Lintner found the transition difficult at first. She was far from her family and faced the challenge of adapting to a new culture while learning a new language. But she persevered for her family, eventually finding her way to MCC through the College’s free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes.

“At that time, I didn’t speak a single word of English, and it was very hard to handle things like doctor’s appointments or school matters for my children without a translator,” she said. “That’s what motivated me to enroll.”

Through ESL classes, Lintner began building the English skills and academic foundation she would need to continue her education.

After becoming a U.S. citizen in 2022, Lintner was able to pursue her dream of working in a school. She began working as a Parent Community Liaison at Harvard Junior High, where she helped connect families with resources and provided translation support.

The experience changed the possibilities she saw for her own future.

“Seeing their struggles inspired me to go back to school,” she said.

When Lintner learned about the partnership between MCC and Aurora University at the University Center in Woodstock, she knew it was the right opportunity for her. With the encouragement of her husband, William, she took placement tests and began working toward her associate’s degree at MCC.

Returning to school as an adult brought a new set of challenges—but ones she was determined to overcome. English was still her second language, and there were times when the lectures or reading assignments felt overwhelming. When she didn’t understand something the first time, she kept working at it until she did.   

“I refused to give up,” she said. “I would read the same material two, three, or even more times until I finally understood it.”

Her instructors also played an important role in helping her navigate those challenges.

“All of my instructors at MCC were wonderful,” she said. “They were very patient and supportive, especially knowing that English is my second language. Their encouragement made a big difference in my journey.”

During her time at MCC, Lintner earned her GED, strengthened her English skills, and gained the confidence to pursue her educational goals. Scholarships, including the Nicole Daune Jackson Scholarship, IME Becas, the Dolores Hall Scholarship, and the Scot Success Scholarship, also helped ease the financial burden on her family and allowed her to focus on her studies.

“MCC gave me a second chance and showed me that with hard work, support, and belief in yourself, anything is possible,” she said.

This spring, Lintner graduated with High Honors and earned two associate degrees—one in Arts and one in General Studies.

“It was an indescribable moment,” she said. “I never thought I would be able to go back to school as an adult and complete an associate degree. My family is very proud.”

For Lintner, the impact of her MCC experience extends far beyond her own accomplishments.

“MCC has helped me grow in every way,” she said. “Personally, it gave me confidence and hope. Academically, it prepared me for university-level work. Professionally, it opened the door for me to work in schools and make a difference in my community.”

This fall, she began pursuing her bachelor’s degree in education through Aurora University at MCC’s University Center in Woodstock. Her long-term goal is to become a bilingual elementary teacher, supporting Spanish-speaking students and their families and helping them feel safe and understood at school.

“I also hope to inspire other immigrant women that it’s never too late to follow their dreams,” she said.

Lintner’s advice to other students is simple: Never give up.

“It’s never too late to start your education, no matter your age.”