Getting an education and being a college graduate is important to me because it’s a sacrifice for my family. I want to be the first generation to graduate from college and be able to help my family later on.
One of the biggest barriers I faced was being a first-generation student. My parents didn’t attend college, so I had to navigate everything on my own—from applying to schools to understanding financial aid. On top of that, I dealt with financial instability at home, and the emotional pressure to succeed was immense. These challenges made the journey difficult, but they also pushed me to become more resourceful and resilient.
10,000 Degrees has made a huge difference in my college journey. The scholarship really helped me a lot, especially when I was struggling financially; it helped me with books and other personal things I needed. Having an advisor like [my Fellow] Jonathan was invaluable; he was very patient with me, especially with financial aid. And the internship resources provided were one of the greatest resources I could ever find. My first internship was an amazing experience, and I’m very grateful to have had that kind of opportunity. My mentor provided guidance, motivation, and a sense of belonging, helping me stay on track and reminding me I wasn’t alone.
Attending college has created a ripple effect in my family, friends, and community. For my family, it’s a source of pride and hope—I’m showing my younger siblings and cousins that higher education is possible. I carry my culture and roots with me into every classroom, and that representation matters.
I want to change the world by creating spaces where underrepresented voices are heard, valued, and uplifted. Whether it’s through mental health advocacy, education, or storytelling, I hope to inspire and empower others, especially first-gen, immigrant, and BIPOC communities to believe in their worth and potential. My goal is to break cycles of silence, stigma, and inequality, and replace them with understanding, opportunity, and healing.