Paraguayan Ana Jara Valenzuela first visited Wichita State as an undergraduate exchange student in 2022. She loved it so much that she decided to return to earn a graduate degree and professional certificate.
Ana is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2026 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.
What degree will you be earning in May?
Master of Arts in Spanish with a Spanish for the Professions certificate
What is your hometown?
San Lorenzo, Paraguay
What schools did you attend before coming to Wichita State?
- Colegio Nacional España
- Universidad Americana
When you were a little kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a little kid, I wanted to be someone who makes a positive impact, someone who leaves something meaningful and special wherever I go.
What made you choose Wichita State University?
In 2022, I was an exchange student through the BECAL-CPK program, a scholarship funded by the Paraguayan government. It gave me the opportunity to spend a semester of my undergraduate degree in international affairs at Wichita State University. During that time, I fell in love with the campus and its people, and I just knew I wanted to come back.
Did you receive any scholarships to attend Wichita State?
Yes, I was fortunate to receive financial support during my time at Wichita State University. I served as a graduate teaching assistant, which gave me the opportunity not only to teach but also to share a piece of where I come from with my wonderful students. Through this role, I received a tuition waiver, which was incredibly helpful in making my studies more accessible. In addition, I was honored to receive the Tilford Fellowship Award for the 2025–26 academic year. Both opportunities greatly supported my academic journey and allowed me to focus on my studies while gaining valuable experience.
What applied learning experiences did you participate in during your time here?
I had the opportunity to put into practice everything I learned in the classroom in real-life settings at the International Rescue Committee here in Wichita, as well as at an immigration law firm. In both places, I worked as a translator and interpreter. These experiences allowed me to support people in my community by doing what I love, while also strengthening my professional skills in meaningful, real-world contexts.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
My advice to other Wichita State students is to take full advantage of all the resources the university offers. There are so many people and services available to support you, both academically and personally. Just remember that you are not alone in this journey. It can get challenging at times, but there is always help available. Don’t be afraid to ask for it when you need it. And dream big!
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I would love to keep working with students, as I find it to be one of the most rewarding paths, providing support, guidance, and helping them grow academically and personally. Pursuing a Ph.D. is definitely an option I am considering, but I am not in a rush at this moment. I want to take the time to carefully reflect and choose the program that best aligns with my long-term goals and interests.
Fun question: You suddenly find yourself in the middle of a dance battle. What's the first move you're gonna hit 'em with?
No idea, LOL. I’d probably start with a confident smile while I figure out what everyone else is doing. If that fails, I’ll just commit to the vibe and see what happens.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 25,000 students between its main campus and the WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech), including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student-centered and innovation-driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students. The National Science Foundation ranked WSU No. 1 in the nation for aerospace engineering R&D, No. 2 for industry- and defense-funded engineering R&D and No. 9 overall for engineering R&D.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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