College Helps Taiwanese Immigrant Achieve Her American Dream

In 1982, Mary Chen left Taiwan with her mother and two sisters and emigrated to America for the educational opportunities they believed the U.S. could afford them. For Chen, however, the road ahead would not be easy. “In 1989, I was at the lowest point of my life, divorced with an 11-month-old son and having difficulty finding a job to feed us,“ says Chen, “but that’s when Delaware Tech offered me a part-time position.”

Chen took full advantage of the opportunity and worked tirelessly towards full-time employment  and an associate degree, and before long, she had earned both at Delaware Tech. Soon after, thanks to an articulation agreement with Wilmington University, Chen pursued a bachelor’s and ultimately earned her doctorate in educational leadership.

“Every year, when I see our Delaware Tech students receive their degrees on stage at graduation, I respect their accomplishments because I understand how difficult it is to juggle work, life and school as a non-traditional student,” says Chen. “But like our graduates, I was lucky to have the support of the College every step of the way.”

Chen, who has worked for Delaware Tech for more than 26 years, has earned several promotions and currently serves as the assistant director of business services for the Stanton/George Campuses.

“On its 50th anniversary, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude and appreciation to Delaware Tech,” she says. “My experiences here empowered me to achieve the  American dream, and I’m just one example of the many lives that have been changed by the College.”