TIFTON, Ga. (WALB) - Oscar Martinez Hernandez is one of just 11 college students from across the country selected to serve as a Convention Collegiate Assistant at the upcoming National Future Famers of America (FFA) Convention & Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Martinez Hernandez will help manage events and support competitions in the Career and Leadership Development category. The prestigious opportunity recognizes both his academic excellence and his leadership outside the classroom.

But his journey started long before college.

“I immigrated to this country at six years old not knowing any English. I didn’t really start understanding the language until around fourth grade,” said Martinez Hernandez. “Now being able to do all this is quite remarkable in my opinion. It shows that even from small communities, you’re able to do big things, and you shouldn’t be afraid to try.”

One of his professors at ABAC, Farish Mulkey, said it was Martinez Hernandez’s ambition and willingness that led him to great success.

“All students were presented with the same opportunity he had,” said Mulkey. “But he took initiative. He sought out those chances to get involved and gain experiences beyond the classroom, and that’s what’s going to carry him far.”

Martinez Hernandez is a first-generation college student from Atkinson County studying to become a teacher. He said that his goal is to inspire and prepare the next generation.

“As a future teacher, I think it would be a disservice to my students if I didn’t take advantage of every opportunity I was given,” he said. “That’s what motivates me: showing them what’s possible. At the end of the day, everything pays off.”

From struggling to learn English as a child to now preparing to lead students in the classroom, Martinez Hernandez hopes his story reminds others that where you start doesn’t define you.

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