Pursuing the College Dream
We were always told that going to college was the key to having a great life. My mother worked two and three jobs so that she could take care of my sibling and I. My sister was in college and was diagnosed with a serious illness. She inspired me to continue college and not give up.
I attended Long Beach City College first because I did not want to leave my family and attend college out of state. All the track and field scholarship interest was coming from other states. I decided to attend a local junior college then transfer to a four-year college.
Attending college definitely opened many doors. Going to college not only help me grow academically, but also mentally. Learning to work with professors, my peers, and university staff really help develop into the person I am today.
My goal is to help others develop into amazing people that will one day help someone too. I have helped graduate over a hundred student athletes. Each time another group graduates, my heart is filled with excitement just seeing them finally reach the goal.
Advice to First-Gen Students
My advice to a first generation college student is to dream big and work hard. Enjoy your college experience and learn as much as you can.