Meet Jose Jesus Elias Art Instructor at WHCC Firebaugh Center

I was born in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato (Mexico). My childhood dream was to become a professional artist. In the summer of 1988, I made the most important decision of my life; to leave my homeland and immigrate to the United States.

Knowing I needed to work, the only opportunity available was farm work. For me, it was my first time working in the fields and my only means to support myself. One of my main obstacles to seeking new opportunities was to learn the new language and then enroll in college.

I started taking English courses at night.  In 1992, I took a major step and enrolled in a community college. I graduated with an associate degree soon after. I told myself that one day I would return to college as an instructor.  I have been teaching art at Coalinga College at Firebaugh Center for over 10 years now.

My Art