Nohelia Agudelo | Honor Society®

About

I’m Colombian and have been living in the United States for four years. I initially came through an exchange program, and after that experience, I continued my education as an international student. I’m now a permanent resident, married, and share my home with two cats who are an important part of my life.

I’m pursuing a degree in Business Administration, a field that has allowed me to combine my interest in business with my passion for helping others. During my time in the U.S., I worked as a paralegal at an immigration law firm, which gave me a deep understanding of the immigration system and its many complexities.

That experience inspired me to start my own journey, and today I run a small business focused on immigration support. Through it, I help individuals with their applications and guide them through their immigration processes, offering support and clarity during what can often be stressful and confusing times. This work not only allows me to apply my administrative knowledge but also lets me make a meaningful contribution to the community.

This journey has helped me grow both professionally and personally. Combining my background in business with my experience in the immigration field has led me to a clear purpose: to use my skills to make a real difference in the lives of those who, like me, chose to begin a new chapter in this country.

Honors and awards

International Gastronomy Competition

Success in the fair depends on teamwork to prepare, sell, and explain traditional dishes. Each member must fulfill their role, communicate well, and collaborate to provide an authentic and organized cultural experience for students and judges.

Goals and interests

Career goal: My goal is to continue building a career that merges business administration with immigration services. I intend to expand my current business, offering more comprehensive support to immigrants navigating the U.S. immigration system. In the long term, I hope to lead or collaborate with organizations focused on immigration advocacy, community outreach, and legal support, using both my administrative skills and firsthand experience to make the process more accessible and humane for others.
Graduate school interests: I’m interested in pursuing graduate studies in a program that combines business, public administration, and immigration policy. I’m particularly drawn to programs that emphasize social entrepreneurship, nonprofit management, or leadership in public service, as they align with my goal of expanding my impact within immigrant communities. Through grad school, I hope to deepen my understanding of organizational strategy, policy development, and community-based approaches, equipping me with the tools to grow my business and contribute more effectively to systemic change.
Outside the classroom: In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my two cats, going to the gym, and trying out different recipes at home. I also love reading about personal development, entrepreneurship, and immigration policy. I’ve recently gotten into indoor plants and enjoy taking care of my small but growing collection, it’s a relaxing way to disconnect and add some life to my space.

Experience

Immigration paralegal

I have professional experience both as a paralegal and as a small business owner. I previously worked at an immigration law firm, where I served as a paralegal supporting attorneys with client cases, document preparation, and application filings. This role gave me valuable insight into immigration law and the challenges many individuals face during their immigration processes. Currently, I run a small business focused on immigration support services. Through my business, I assist clients with completing forms, organizing documentation, and understanding the steps involved in their immigration journey. My work is centered on providing accessible, trustworthy guidance to help people feel more confident and informed throughout their process.

Jan 2022 – Sep 2025

Languages

Spanish Fluent