“Show us that college is possible, give us the confidence and support to apply, and work with us to reach outside our comfort zone.”
Who has inspired you on your path To&Through college?
I met one student who grew up in poverty, immigrated here with nothing, went through school learning English as a second language, graduated community college, and is now at the University of Illinois—living the dream. I heard his story, I heard his voice, and he inspired me. Not only is it important to connect students to programs; it’s important to connect them to stories—because then you’re also connecting them to a goal.
What lessons from your journey To&Through college will you share with others?
I hope that one day I can also become a college coach, so that I can inspire someone who didn’t see someone like me growing up. One day soon, I want to be the one telling students like me that it was possible for me, it is possible for them.
What advice would you give to other students aspiring to make it To&Through college?
Know that you are powerful the way you are right now. You can succeed. You are good enough. It’s possible. And when you get to where you want to be, say that to someone else who needs to hear it.
