Rommina Watson
“I strive to be a role model for other immigrants. You don’t have to settle for work that is less than your dream. With a clear goal and effort, you can achieve anything.”
Rommina Watson, a determined 48-year-old who moved to the United States from Venezuela in 2019, epitomizes the immigrant success story. Armed with an engineering degree and nearly two decades of experience in finance, Rommina found herself cleaning hotel rooms when she first arrived in Denver. But her story is one of resilience and tenacity, demonstrating that with determination and support, dreams can indeed be rebuilt.
Rommina’s journey at Emily Griffith began when she enrolled in English classes, spurred on by a recommendation from her then-boss at the hotel. Recognizing the necessity of mastering English to reclaim her professional life, she dove headfirst into her studies. Her English teacher saw her potential and encouraged her to pursue jobs in the banking sector, setting her back on the path of her original career.
Her hard work paid off when she landed a position at KeyBank. Balancing her new job with ongoing English studies, Rommina not only improved her language skills but also advanced through various levels of English courses. Her dedication led her to enroll in the College’s Vocational Transitions class, which paved the way for her entry into Emily Griffith’s Accounting program.
Now, Rommina thrives as a Relationship Manager at KeyBank and excels in her Accounting studies. Her ambition doesn’t stop there; she plans to continue her education to become a Certified Public Accountant. All the while, she has been a pillar of support for her family, who reside in Colombia, and has successfully managed to bring her daughter to the U.S. Her daughter joined her three months ago and is now finishing her freshman year of high school.
Rommina’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has received scholarships and financial support through Emily Griffith Foundation, ensuring she can continue her dual path of working and studying. Rommina expresses immense gratitude for the support she has received from Emily Griffith and the broader community. She believes that knowing others believe in you can be a powerful motivator.
"I strive to be a role model for other immigrants," Rommina says. "You don’t have to settle for work that is less than your dream. With a clear goal and effort, you can achieve anything."
Rommina’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of community support. Her journey from hotel housekeeping to a flourishing career at KeyBank underscores that no dream is too big to achieve. Her incredible drive coupled with support from Emily Griffith helps ensure that Rommina is not just rebuilding her life but also inspiring others to chase their dreams.