When Chabelli Hernandez graduated from BHCC in 2023 with an associate degree in Liberal Arts, she  became the first woman in her family to earn a college degree. For Hernandez—who also goes by the name  Latina Bohemian, a creative identity she uses for her art and writing—the milestone represented more than  academic achievement. It marked the beginning of a new chapter shaped by resilience, self-discovery, and  the support of a college community that believed in her potential.  

Hernandez’s journey to BHCC was not linear. She enrolled in 2012, but life soon led her in other directions.  Over the years, she worked in retail, earned a home health aide certificate, and served as a caregiver for her  grandmother, who lived to be nearly 93. Along the way, Hernandez struggled with self-doubt and uncer tainty about her future. When she returned to BHCC in 2020, however, she was determined to finish what  she started—and found the encouragement she needed to move forward.  

“BHCC became the stepping stone for me—it was the foundation for everything I’ve been able to achieve,”  Hernandez said. “I found a community here that saw potential in me when I couldn’t always see it in myself.  After years of trials and tribulations, I found my spark again.”  

That foundation helped Hernandez discover a passion for creative writing. A poetry class at BHCC ignited  her interest, and she was soon published in Tell Magazine. With each piece, she gained confidence in her voice as a writer and storyteller. Her poetry has since appeared in several publications across Greater Boston, exploring themes of heritage, resilience and identity.  

Her time at BHCC opened doors to media and community engagement. Through a professional devel opment program with El Mundo Boston, Hernandez created a podcast on entrepreneurship, interviewing  leaders and creatives about their journeys. She credits BHCC with providing both the academic skills and  confidence to pursue opportunities.  

Now a junior at UMass Amherst majoring in business with a concentration in writing, Hernandez main tains a GPA above 3.0. At 31, she proudly embraces her role as a non-traditional student.  

“Your dreams don’t have to expire,” Hernandez said. “No matter your age or circumstances, there’s always a  way forward—and BHCC can be that first step.”