Union City's Own Latimers Champion UT Martin Student's Academic Success

Ellie Puentes' path to earning her college degree demonstrates resilience and community support. She began her higher education in New York but left her first college in April 2022 due to health issues from the COVID-19 vaccine. Bill and Carol Latimer from Union City helped her by covering her room and board, allowing her to transfer to the University of Tennessee at Martin (UT Martin).

At UT Martin, Puentes switched her major from pre-med to Spanish, influenced by her experiences with health and institutional policies during the pandemic. The Latimers' support, both financial and motivational, played a crucial role in her ability to continue her education. Puentes graduated on May 4, celebrated at the Kathleen and Tom Elam Center with her family and the Latimers.

Transitioning to UT Martin brought its own challenges. Moving from bustling New York to the quieter, rural Martin, Tennessee, was a big cultural change for Puentes. She initially felt out of place but gradually felt welcomed thanks to the Southern hospitality and support from university faculty. This support helped her adjust and feel a part of the community.

Puentes was active in campus life at UT Martin, participating in various activities that helped her integrate and contribute to the university culture. This involvement was key to her feeling at home in a new environment.

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