A chat with… Michelle Saldivar, Special Projects Advisor at Building One Community

By Humberto J. Rocha

DARIEN — Michelle Saldivar spoke no English when she came to the United States in 1995 for her undergraduate studies.

It was through theater and other student organizations at Massasoit Community College in Massachusetts, and out of necessity, that she quickly picked it up.

“I had no English whatsoever,” Saldivar, 42, said about her experiences meeting other students. “I was involved in everything because I wanted to be part of the community.”

In 10 years’ time, she graduated with a triple major in political science, economics and international relations from Stonehill College and was working in London for Wellington Management, a financial management firm.

When asked if she expected such a turn in her life, Saldivar shook her head.

“Not at all,” Saldivar said with a smile. “When I left Mexico, I said that I would be back in one year and, well, my life just took me to the next place.”