Education: A Dream Realized for My Family
Being a first-generation Latino student was my biggest obstacle when pursuing a college degree. At times, I felt confused and lost in the process, wondering if I was even doing the right thing. The pressure from my family constantly questioned when I would be done with school; they did not understand that a lot of my path was trial and error. There would be minor setbacks because I had no clue what I was doing. I had to navigate scholarships, financial aid, school programs, transferring, working, and all while maintaining a good GPA. Growing up, my parents always wanted me to get an education. It was mainly for them, because I know they sacrificed a ton to give me this opportunity. Back home, there was no money for them to go to school; my dad and mom had to work from a young age. I think every step I take, every class I pass, every graduation I go to, it gets me one step closer and it makes them proud. That’s ultimately why I do it.
The Indispensable Support of 10,000 Degrees
My involvement with 10,000 Degrees helped me tremendously. Whenever I felt confused, I used to reach out to Willy, my Fellow. He would help guide me in the right direction and had my best interests at heart. He was extremely reliable. Any question I had – financial aid, classes, scholarships – I would text or email him, and he’d respond right away. Having someone who’s gone through that process is so important, especially when it’s your first time doing scholarship applications, transfer applications, FAFSA. The scholarship I received through 10,000 Degrees truly helped me out financially. I didn’t have to worry about where I was going to get money for books or tuition, which really adds up. This ultimately got me one step closer to my goal, and I’m always going to be appreciative of that.
The impact college leaves is faith, knowing that anything is possible. I could have stopped at many points because classes were hard or expensive. Instead, I found scholarships and attended tutoring services. It gives people around me the courage to take a chance in their fields, to continue pursuing their dreams despite any obstacle. I believe in the power of education to change lives because it gives you tremendous hope, tremendous support, and it’s something I think everybody should pursue. I’ve learned a lot and faced much adversity and many challenges. I just want to inspire all these other people, especially the younger generation. There are kids who have the potential to do so many great things, but sometimes they’re just surrounded by the wrong people. Sometimes they just need someone to believe in them.
Inspiring the Next Generation and Giving Back
I want the youth to get away from violence, gangs, and drugs. Growing up, this was seen as cool, and some people saw it as their only path. I want to help end that. I want to help people understand the difference between good and bad relationships. That is why I am pursuing my education—to be a role model for the younger generation. I am ONE Degree of Change because I dare to pursue a higher education despite all the obstacles.