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Gyannella Vega Ortega came to Kentucky State University from Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, because she wanted to experience something different and unique. The student-athlete also received a scholarship to play volleyball and was an 1890 scholarship recipient.

“In the beginning I was nervous because it was a different language and different surroundings, but the late Volleyball Head Coach Dishondra Goree, helped me throughout this journey,” she expressed. “Mrs. Amy Mcgee also believed in me and presented me with the opportunity to receive the 1890 scholarship.”

Vega Ortega says that her family has also always been influential in her educational pursuits.

“My family supported me throughout all of this, especially my sister Jessica Vega,” she began. “My dad passed away when I was 14 years old. My sister has been there since I was born; her love and care for me are amazing. Jessica showed me how to love and take care of myself like nobody else. She helped me economically with everything; so, this goal goes to her!” 

While at Kentucky State, Vega Ortega was the historian for the Kentucky State Chapter of Beta Kappa Chi Scientific Honor Society, a member of L.E.A.D 1886, a Spanish tutor, and a research assistant.

The first-generation graduate says that completing her degree was extremely important and personal.

“This is a goal I’ve always had in life and I’m very happy to finally achieve it. It was very important to me because I not only make myself proud but my family proud as well. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a professional and to know that I'm getting to my goal feels amazing.”

Vega Ortega says becoming a chiropractor is her dream job. She plans to attend Palmer College of Chiropractic in Florida.