Meet Manuella Escobar

Manuella Escobar, a recent graduate of Reynolds Community College, is an inspiring example of determination and ambition. This past spring, she earned her Associate of Arts and Associate of Social Sciences degrees and has transferred to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). She starts this fall and will work toward her Bachelor’s in Mass Communication with an emphasis in Public Relations.

During her time at Reynolds, Manuella has been an active Student Ambassador and Content Creator. Born and raised in Colombia, she moved to the U.S. in 2021. Manuella describes her homeland as “one of the most beautiful countries in the world, home to warm people and awesome food.”

Manuella’s journey to Reynolds began with her dream of studying in the U.S. She sought affordable education options and found community colleges to be the perfect solution. A relative suggested she look into Reynolds, and after learning more about it, she felt it was the right fit. Manuella recalls her first interaction with the college as positive and supportive, with staff who were proactive and encouraging.

Financial concerns were a significant challenge for Manuella as an international student. She diligently sought on-campus jobs, scholarships, and stipend programs to fund her education. Her vibrant personality and bilingual skills made her an ideal Student Ambassador and Influencer, enabling her to reach out to the Latino community and share the benefits of attending Reynolds from a student’s perspective.

Despite the financial hurdles, Manuella’s hard work paid off. She received scholarships that covered her tuition for two years. Reflecting on her experience, she says, “I don't regret a single thing in my journey because all of these experiences made me grow, allowed me to find my vocation, explore my career goals, and enhance my skills.”

Manuella advises prospective students to “Apply now!” She expresses immense gratitude for Reynolds and the supportive community she found there. “It has prepared me for college AND for life, and I am incredibly grateful for this place,” she says. To current students, she encourages them to seize every opportunity, utilize available resources, and get involved.

Manuella’s dedication to her studies and her community is evident in her work as a content creator. Jessica Buchanan, Assistant Marketing Director at Reynolds, praises her contributions, noting a 6% growth in their social media following since Manuella joined the team. One of her videos has garnered over 5,000 views. Manuella’s bilingual abilities have expanded Reynolds’ reach within the young Hispanic population.

Manuella aspires to become a Public Relations Specialist focusing on social media, leveraging her Latin heritage to promote inclusion and diversity. She is passionate about connecting communities with essential services through online platforms.

With an impressive following, Manuella is active on social media engaging the hispanic community, sharing her multifaceted talents, including singing, playing the ukulele, and discussing her journey with an eating disorder.

Her story is one of resilience, passion, and gratitude. As a Reynolds graduate, she is thankful for the supportive community that helped her realize her dreams. With her dedication and drive, Manuella Escobar is poised to make a significant impact in the field of Public Relations.

To learn more about the Guaranteed Transfer Program at Reynolds, visit our website.