A proud master’s graduate gave his immigrant parents an emotional thank you for their sacrifices when he presented them with his hood and gown at his graduation ceremony.
Martin and Lorena Saldana moved to the United States from Mexico at a young age, seeking a better life.
Due to these sacrifices, Martin was only able to complete education up until fourth grade, while Lorena only completed middle school.
The couple dedicated their lives to work, allowing their oldest son, Martin Jr., to pursue an education they never had.
MORE GOOD NEWS: Act of Kindness Goes Viral as Boy Returns Cap to Friend in Wheelchair
And so, ahead of his master’s graduation and hooding ceremony at Florida State University, Martin Jr., who had studied Higher Education and Student Affairs, decided he wanted to plan a loving gesture for his parents.
Martin Jr. said he had seen an online trend where grateful Latino children present their parents with their graduation regalia.
On May 3, he did exactly that, placing his master’s hood on his father, and his gown on his mother, before giving them an emotional hug.
Martin Jr. said: “My identities as a Latino, first-generation man meant that I had to face lots of adversity to get to this point and many people around me knew how difficult these two years were for me.
MORE GOOD NEWS: Proud Immigrant Mom Wells up When Daughter Shows Her Loving Thank You Message on Graduation Cap
“After the ceremony, my parents didn’t really know what was happening when I was taking off my regalia.
“I then decided to put it on them and have them take photos with my regalia on.
“My family never had the chance to walk a stage or wear a regalia; therefore, I wanted them to feel that their hard work and sacrifice was worth it.
“It was a very heartfelt moment.
“I felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders.
MORE GOOD NEWS: Kids Gift Diplomas to Mom Thanking Her for Sacrifices at Graduation
“My hard work and sacrifice to leave the home I love, knowing how much my family needed me was well worth the time it took to receive my Master’s degree.
“It felt like we could finally be united again as a family.
“The response has been nothing short of overwhelming in the best way possible.
“I could tell that it’s an inspiration to many people who feel like it is impossible to pursue a graduate degree.”
Want more good news? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter - Smileworthy. It's a weekly 5-minute read packed with uplifting stories, positive news and tips for living life more Happily. Oh, and it's free! 👇
