Marisa’s strength and perseverance have carried her through enormous challenges. She moved to South Carolina from New Jersey in 2016 and attended online school through middle and high school. When her mother passed away, she stepped away from her education and worked two jobs to support herself and her brother.
Marisa came to GLA because she wanted in-person classes and the chance to continue her education. Balancing school with her full-time job at Harris Teeter—where she works as a cake decorator—was her biggest challenge, but she remained committed to her goals. Her advice to new students is heartfelt: “Don’t be afraid or ashamed. Stick to it and do it for yourself—that’s what matters.”
She is grateful to everyone at GLA who supported her, especially her instructor Ellen Aiken, who helped her discover confidence and even enjoyment in math. She also thanks her friend Morgan, her brother, and her partner for encouraging her every step of the way.
Marisa has already met with TalentRise Greenville to explore college opportunities. She plans to begin at Greenville Tech and eventually pursue Marine Biology at a four-year college—and with friends and family urging her to open a bakery, she may even join GLA’s first entrepreneurship class in February 2026.
The future is bright for Marisa, and we are proud to celebrate her achievements tonight.
