When Michelle Flores-Orea first imagined her future, she pictured herself in the Air Force, not a college classroom. Her plan was set, and college was never part of it. Then a conversation with her ROTC instructor changed everything. He encouraged her to explore her options, and when Barton College offered her a competitive scholarship, she decided to take a leap of faith. That single decision opened the door to a future she never imagined possible.
“I chose Barton because it was close to home,” shared Flores-Orea. “I’m a very family-oriented person, and being near my loved ones was extremely important to me.”
What began as an unexpected opportunity soon grew into a transformative experience. Guided by caring mentors and her own determination, she found her voice, her calling, and her confidence.
“I discovered that my voice matters,” said Flores-Orea. “That I can lead, that I can make a difference.”
As graduation approaches, Flores-Orea reflects on a journey defined by purpose. She will complete three degrees in social work, Spanish and business administration, a combination that represents her vision for creating connection and positive change. Each field has given her new ways to understand people and lead with empathy.
“Being the first in my family to earn not just one, but three degrees, fills me with pride and gratitude,” she said. “This scholarship didn’t just fund my education but it gave me the chance to grow, explore my passions, and step into roles and experiences I would have never imagined. It made me realize that sometimes, the path you didn’t plan for is the one that leads to the most growth, opportunity, and fulfillment. Barton has truly given me a chance to not only pursue my dreams but to exceed even my own expectations, and I will forever be thankful for that life changing opportunity.”
Her path to social work began when she took an introductory course that opened her eyes to the power of service and advocacy.
“It was the first time I was truly following my heart,” she explained.
Later, her connection with Professor Ayarza inspired her to pursue Spanish as a second major, while her foundation in business provided her with leadership and organizational skills to strengthen her impact. She describes adding social work and Spanish as among the best decisions she has made for herself because both have challenged, inspired and helped her grow in ways she never imagined.
That balance of compassion and drive is reflected in everything she does. Flores-Orea has held numerous leadership roles at Barton, including serving as captain of the women’s bowling team, student ambassador, SAAC representative, peer leader and social media manager for the Campus Store. She has also taken on a key role within the Horizontes Pathway, a program that supports Spanish-speaking and first-generation students. As its social media coordinator, she works closely with peers and staff to connect students with resources and to celebrate shared heritage.
“It means so much to me to be in a space that uplifts students who come from similar backgrounds and helps them feel seen, supported, and at home,” she said. “Being a first-generation student myself, I know how overwhelming college can feel, especially when you don’t have anyone in your family who’s been through it before. Horizontes gives us a community where we can share our experiences, help one another, and celebrate our culture and accomplishments together.”
Her passion for helping others is deeply rooted in her family’s example.
“My family’s journey, especially my mom’s, has been my biggest source of inspiration,” she said. “She’s sacrificed so much to make sure I could have the opportunities she never did.”
“As I got older, my stepdad came into my life and stepped up in every possible way,” she said. “He didn’t just take on the role of a father but he truly became one. The love and effort he’s shown me reminds me every day that family isn’t only about blood but it’s about who shows up, who loves you, and who believes in you.”
Flores-Orea also shared advice for students following in her footsteps.
“It’s never going to be easy being the first in your family to set that foundation, but I promise you the end will be so worth it,” she said. “There will be moments when you feel lost, overwhelmed, or like you don’t belong, but those are the moments that shape you the most.”
“Say yes to opportunities, even when they scare you,” she said. “Get involved on campus, talk to your professors, join organizations, and surround yourself with people who lift you up. You never know which experience will open a door for you or help you find your purpose.”
“You have to remind yourself that you deserve to be here,” she said. “You earned your spot, and you are capable of achieving amazing things. Most importantly, don’t forget where you came from. Let your family, your culture, and your journey be your motivation.”
After graduation, Flores-Orea plans to become a child welfare social worker, with the long-term goal of advancing into policy and planning. Her vision is to help create programs that strengthen families and give every child the opportunity to thrive.
“I’ve always wanted to work with children and families,” she said. “My goal is to help build systems that offer real support and lasting hope.”
As she looks toward the future, Flores-Orea carries with her the lessons of perseverance, community, and purpose that have shaped her time at Barton. Every challenge, mentor, and experience has strengthened her belief in what is possible when opportunity meets determination.
“It made me realize that sometimes, the path you didn’t plan for is the one that leads to the most growth, opportunity, and fulfillment,” she said. “Barton has truly given me a chance to not only pursue my dreams but to exceed even my own expectations, and I will forever be thankful for that life changing opportunity.”
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