Meet the Bloggers
Center for Student Opportunity awards I'm First! Scholarships to first-generation college
students attending a College Partner institution. Scholarship winners uniquely share
their college experiences and offer advice on the ImFirst.org blog: www.ImFirst.org/blog.
College Class of 2019
Abraham Vicuna
Hometown: Houston, TX
College/University Attending: University of Houston ‘19
Abraham always saw education as a reflection of his life. His parents came to
this country wanting to provide him with the opportunity to excel in the future.
Ever since middle school, Abraham has been dedicated to his education and
committed to excel in every way possible.
“Every decision I've made and will make is directed towards getting me through college.
Education is the best gift I have ever received, and I want to be able to share it and celebrate it
with others.”
Andrea Haerther
Hometown: Alamo, TX
College University Attending: University of Houston '19
Even though she is from a small town in Texas, Andrea has big dreams of
becoming the first in her family to attend college. Being an emancipated minor,
her path to higher education hasn't been typical. Despite the obstacles, Andrea
is grateful for her experiences and looks forward to exceling at the University of Houston.
“I am grateful to have such a wonderful support system and many people who believe in my
capabilities. Being a first generation college student is difficult and it is easy to feel alone but it is
an incredible journey that I am so grateful for.
Dave Lacroix
Hometown: Westbury, NY
College/University Attending: Dartmouth College ‘19
Dave came to the United States from Port-Au-Prince, Haiti at the age of 4 and
since then, has been making his impact on being the first to attend college in
his family. With his avid love of poetry and learning new cultures, Dave is excited about the new
life he plans to embrace while at college where he plans to major in the STEM fields.
“Now that I have the opportunity to attend college, I must hold onto it and make the best of it. As
I embark on this college quest, I will never forget where I come from.”
Lazarus Valenzuela
Hometown: Riverside, CA
College/University Attending: Occidental College ‘19
Lazarus has always wanted to pursue higher education. The support of family
and friends has encouraged Lazarus to pursue his dream of becoming an
ambassador for the United Nations. Currently attending Occidental College, Lazarus is majoring
in Urban and Environmental Policy.
“When I walk across the stage in four years as a first generation college graduate, the legacy
that I want to leave behind is one of empowerment. It is the same legacy that I have aimed to
embody my entire life. I want to encourage my peers to never settle for what they are dealt,
and to always strive to achieve better for themselves and those around them”
Megan Cooke
Hometown: Window Rock, AZ
College/University Attending: Whitman College ‘19
Although Megan hails from Arizona, she spent her high school years at a
boarding school in California. Having overcome the cultural transition at her
high school, Megan is prepared to excel academically while at Whitman
College. While there, she is excited to learn about other cultures and teach others about the
Native American culture that has shaped her.
“After steering through the awkward social and physical transitions that high school was
meant for, college, I hope, will be a place where I can make a bigger impact through social
interactions and connections. I’m very keen with connecting with people. I believe that great
relationships with people will get me farther than just fending for myself. So, as I walk across
that graduation stage, I want to look back on my college years as four years with close friends
and great acquaintances.”
Padah Vang
Hometown: St. Paul, MN
College/University Attending: Colorado College '19
Padah is the oldest of her siblings. She has a love of storytelling and wants to
use that love to encourage other first-generation college students. With the
support and guidance of her family and a local college access organization,
Padah is attending Colorado College.
“I am passionate about empowering youth because they are the leaders of today and will
continue to be leaders of tomorrow. So in the long run, I want to work with youth, specifically
low-income and first-generation students, in their college process. I believe that education is an
investment for oneself that no one can take away from you. You just have to be willing to learn.”
Raquel Diaz
Hometown: Monterey Park, CA
College/University Attending: Reed College '19
Even without guidance, Raquel considered her years in high school successful
because she got involved in what she loved: writing. She’s excited to blog
because it offers her an outlet to share her thoughts and offer consolation and
encouragement to those struggling as first-generation students.
“I’m a first-generation student from Monterey Park, California, and I want to help students
navigate the college process, from applying to graduating and beyond. I want to be able to
support other students so that we can all reach our greatest potential.”
Rolando Perez
Hometown: San Juan Capistrano, CA
College/University Attending: Pitzer College '19
Born into an immigrant family in southern Orange County, Rolando
understands the “fish out of water” feeling that comes from committing oneself
to become the first in one’s family to attend college. In order to complete the
college process, Rolando spent countless hours pestering his guidance counselor and
becoming a tax amateur while filing his FAFSA. While attending Pitzer College, Rolando plans
to continue his commitment to the advancement of his fellow first-generation college students.
“Through my family’s sacrifice, I have earned this opportunity and I intend to repay it tenfold. I
have pledged to become a master of my field and effectively end my family’s cycle of poverty.
Being the first in my family to attend college means I have the power to change my family's
standard of living.”
Santiago Montoya
Hometown: Jackson Heights, NY
College/University Attending: Brandeis University '19
Santiago was born in Medellín, Colombia; at the age of eleven years-old he
and his family moved to the city of New York. There were a plethora of
drawbacks and discomforts, which is something not rather rare for an
immigrant; however, he has been able to conquer every hurdle along the way: the language, the
culture concoction, the homesickness, the immigration laws, and just to mention a few. Now as
a student at Brandies University, he wants to use all that he’s learned in order to overcome the
obstacle of being a first-generation college student.
“There’s a vast of responsibilities that comes along with being the first to attend college. For
that, I’ll remain giving the best of me, chasing my dreams, and my continued pursuit to break
boundaries and to reach where no one has ever gone before.”
College Class of 2018
Adriana Gonzalez
Hometown: Waukegan, IL
College/ University Attending: Pomona College ‘18
Adriana hails from a small city in Illinois, just an hour north of Chicago. When
the time came to decide on college, she asked herself two things: “One: why do
I want to go? Two: where do I see myself?” These two questions helped to
guide her through her college search and selection process. At Pomona College, Adriana is
looking forward to stepping out of her shy shell and making the most of her college experience.
“When I reflected on my desire to attend college at all, the complexities of being an idealistic
Latina girl from a low-income background disappeared. I am attending college because I want to
expand my comfort-zone. For me, it signifies a period of greater self-growth and understanding.”
Benjamin Poertnagl-Pereira
Hometown: Water Mill, NY
College/University Attending: Johns Hopkins University ‘18
Benjamin has always had a love for playing the violin and classical music, even
being chosen for the National Honors Orchestra and New York All State
Orchestra, for which he served the Principal Second Violin Position. Benjamin
will be pursuing a dual degree program at Johns Hopkins University and the Peabody Institute,
where he plans to study violin performance and engineering.
“Now, I am given an opportunity that my parents were unable to receive—a college education. I
hope to complete my schooling and broaden myself as an individual. I hope to succeed and
enjoy working at a job I love. However, more importantly, I hope to inspire my next generation to
follow the trail I have blazed.”
Danica Drezner
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
College/University Attending: Boston University ‘18
Danica Drezner hails from Las Vegas and was accepted as a transfer student
to Boston University’s College of Arts and Sciences, where she will be creating
her own curriculum as an independent major. Although Danica had a
successful first-year in community college, she recognized that a four-year institution like Boston
University would put her in the best position to achieve her goals of becoming a social
entrepreneur.
“As the first in my family to attend college I feel great conviction knowing that I will be the first to
step out of the boundaries of the average 9 to 5 way of living, and to be a role model for others
in my family to reach for the same success.”
Gabriel Reyes
Hometown: Albuquerque, NM
College/University Attending: Brown University ‘18
Gabriel describes himself as an extrovert and gets enjoyment from interacting
and communicating with people. He believes that building relationships with
people is key to understanding interactions among one another. Attending
Brown University, he plans to major in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience.
“My life's philosophy can be summed up in a few simple words: quality over quantity. It is my
desire to attend college so that I can serve as a pinnacle of virtue for my family members, thus
improving their quality of life.”
Gina Bolanos
Hometown: Dallas, TX
College/University Attending: University of Rochester ‘18
The oldest of 3 siblings, Gina will be leaving her home in Dallas, TX and
moving 1,000 away to begin her new life as first-generation college student at
University of Rochester. Despite the obstacles and circumstances she endured
to get to this point, she is looking forward to starting new and becoming immersed in her studies
within the STEM fields.
“While watching your parents try to make ends meet, you begin to think about yourself and the
future. As I look into the road ahead, I see all the opportunities that have been placed in front of
me. By going to college I can transform and succeed to become a better person and student.”
Kendell Holmes
Hometown: Winslow, AZ
College/University Attending: Northern Arizona University ‘18
Kendell is a Native American student from Winslow, AZ. Despite negative
commentary from his community, Kendell applied for and was accepted into
Leadership Enterprise of a Diverse America (LEDA), a program based at
Princeton University, which he credits for propelling him to college.
“Behind every first generation student there is a passion for what they do and the people who
saw the potential in the child. Strong-hearted and determined, a first generation college student
can have the resilience to face the troubles ahead with ease. Even though the student has been
at a disadvantage, he was still able to get into college.”
Luis Espino
Hometown: Napa, CA
College/University Attending: Pomona College ‘18
Luis was born in Mexico and came to the United States when he was four. He
is the youngest of four siblings and is proud to be the first in his family to attend
college. He is very appreciative of his parents and their unyielding love and
support for him during his journey to and through college.
“I've always been reminded of the privilege it is to even get an education. My parents work in
the vineyards, and to this day, I still sometimes find myself wondering how they manage to
support our family here, and our family in Mexico, on top of everything else they have to do.
Seeing them face every obstacle that a slave-wage and immigrant lifestyle brings has been one
of the most humbling and inspiring experiences I've had to date.”
Steven Shi
Hometown: Grove City, PA
College/University Attending: Brown University ‘18
Steven is from a small city in Pennsylvania and enjoys reflective and
introspective activities. Beyond everything, his faith is the core part of his
identity. While academics are a core priority in college, one of his main goals is
to learn how to love others more thoughtfully and more often despite inconveniences.
“Relationships are an essential component of daily living. While I don’t expect this to change in
college, I know that I’ve matured and value friendship remarkably more than when I was
entering high school. For college, I’ve set a goal for myself: help at least one person smile each
day.”
Tyneisha Richardson
Hometown: Hollister, NC
College/University Attending: Meredith College ‘18
Tyneisha is from small town Hollister, NC, where she attended Roanoke Valley
Early College, a high school focused on college preparation. Upon graduating
high school, Tyneisha received both her high school diploma and Associate’s
degree. She will be attending Meredith College, a women’s college in North Carolina, where she
plans to pursue a degree in Public Health.
“My parents and older siblings have always pushed me to be the best that I could be and to take
advantage of every opportunity that comes my way. Growing up, I always knew I would go to
college. This pathway was instilled in me at an early age by my family, counselors, and
community.”
Xavier Husser
Hometown: New York, NY
College/University Attending: Boston College ‘18
Xavier grew up in Harlem and was raised by a single father. He attended Cristo
Rey New York High School, where he realized that college was an option for
him. During his time at Boston College and even after, Xavier wants to spend
his life in service to others and trying to bring about social justice.
“My father taught me that every father wants their son to exceed the generation before them. As
I got older, I’ve done nothing but exceed every expectation in front of me. My ambitious dreams
have propelled me to one of the top tier private universities across the country, yet my
humbleness never lets me forget where I came, my heritage, and family history.
College Class of 2017
Alexa Rodriguez
Hometown: Compton, CA
College: Wellesley College ‘17
Alexa believes that we are all born with the same level of intellect and potential,
the only difference amongst us is how hard one is willing to work for what they
want. When she entered high school she had no clue what she had to do to get
into college because she was first in her family to pursue that goal. She says that this is all very
new and overwhelming for her but is excited for the journey.
“Being accepted into my dream school was exactly the reward my family and I were working
towards these past four years. All of my sleepless nights and all of their sacrifices paid off with
this victory. Seeing the pride in their eyes makes me so indescribably happy. My favorite
moment is when my dad takes out a folded copy of my acceptance letter from his battered
brown wallet to show people. He always says, without fail, “My princess is going to college.””
Brenda Angulo Barrios
Hometown: Washington, DC
College: Trinity Washington University ‘17
Brenda was born in El Salvador and arrived to the U.S. when she was 12 years
old. Brenda’s father was incarcerated in 2007, and her mother had to work
twice as hard to provide for her and her brother. She sees higher education as
an opportunity to demonstrate to others that hardships can have a positive outcome and most
importantly that giving up is NEVER an option.
“Being the first generation college student in my family means that I am breaking the cycle. It
means I have found the inner-strength to persevere and not give up on my dreams. I want to
prove to myself that I am able to achieve my goals and set an example for my brother. The
restrictions along the way have only made me stronger, and I know that as a college graduate I
could motivate other students to pursue their postsecondary goals.”
Dallas Sims
Hometown: Cape Charles, VA
College: University of Virginia ‘17
Dallas is a simple guy who enjoys running, hiking, rock climbing, and anything
that screams “adventure.” Dallas and his twin brother have always been
entrepreneurs. At sixteen, Dallas became the co-founder and manager of Enjoy
the Journey, a company that refashions old belts into bracelet cuffs. Dallas will be studying
Media and Film Studies at the UVA, where he aspires to be a storywriter or producer.
“Attending the University of Virginia in the fall means so much to me because it represents not
just the hard work and dedication that I put into school, but also all the work of my parents and
ancestors. I am proud to set a precedent in my family and just like my mother did for me; strive
to instill that same desire for a college career in my children.”
Khalil Johnson
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
College: Pitzer College ‘17
Khalil has always strived for success by pushing himself academically. Even in
middle school, he not only wanted to be pushed harder, but he wanted to
experience more diversity and cultural difference. To ensure success, he
applied and was accepted to a prestigious charter school. He uses this same drive and
determination as a student at Pitzer College.
“This opportunity granted to me by Pitzer College is a once in a lifetime opportunity to break the
generational curse that has held my family in chains for years. I will be the one to inspire the
young ones that come after me to fight through any adversity they have and reach their goal.”
Michael Faikes
Hometown: Irmo, SC
College: College of Charleston ‘17
Michael was born in Brooklyn, New York but calls the small suburb of Irmo,
South Carolina his home. Michael is has begun his journey into the unknowns
of college life and Is enjoying it. Although he is attends college two hours away
from home, he knows he’ll be discovering a lot about life on his own and a lot about himself as
well.
“My father always pushed me to go one step further and to push harder. I could not have
achieved what I have achieved without his help and fortitude. When I leave this fall, I want to
make him proud.”
Omawatie Beharry
Hometown: Bronx, NY
College: Wellesley College ‘17
Omawatie comes from a low-income, single-parent household in the Bronx,
New York and she strongly identifies with her urban roots. Omwatie is
extremely excited to have the opportunity to blog about her experiences at
Wellesley and make a case for the benefits of attending a liberal arts college as a firstgeneration college student.
“It is with the principles of hard word, determination, and perseverance–principles instilled in me
by my immigrant, working-class mother–that I am about to embark on my journey to college.”
Samuel Hayes
Hometown: Chandler, AZ
College: Northern Arizona University ‘17
As a kid, Samuel was diagnosed with Dyslexia and a speech fluency problem.
It made school harder for him but he never let it bring him down, he still had
tons of friends, received stellar grades and was able to attend a College Prep
high school. He has learned to accept his condition and embrace it as part of who he is. It's
because of this that Samuel majors in Speech Pathology in college.
“It means a lot to me to be the first among my family to attend college. My Grandpa was born in
Mexico and tried multiple times to cross the border and failed. He wanted a better life for his
family. He knew that education was the key to a better life and wanted us to have a better
chance at success than he had. He went through so much to get to America and I just want to
make him proud.”
Ysabel Cuerva
Hometown: Bronx, NY
College: Stonehill College ‘17
Ysabel was born in La Vega, Dominican Republic and came to the U.S. when
she was only four months old. Growing up in the Bronx, her close knit family
provided her with the love and support she needed to grow. Ysabel is
passionate about helping as many people as she can, in whatever way she can. She continues
with this passion as a current student at Stonehill College.
“Not only will I go to a private school, but I'm leaving the Bronx. For this reason, I will truly be the
first to benefit from the college experience. My choice is meaningful because I will break a
tradition, and will also show my younger brother's how to reach for their own dreams.”
College Class of 2016
Alexis King
Hometown: Gainesville, FL
College: University of Florida, ‘16
Before embarking on her journey to college, Alexis had difficulty learning in
elementary school. She needed the assistance of tutors and constant parent
conferences to check on her progress. However, by her senior year of high
school, she surpassed everyone’s expectations by graduating with honors!
“I know that becoming a social worker won’t be best for paying off debt, but I think following my
dream is more important. I want to be a role model to first generation students reminding you it’s
not enough to be the first to attend college, we have to excel here.”
Carlton Hassell
Hometown: Richmond, VA
College: George Mason University, ‘16
Carlton’s father is his role model, showing him how to be a man and how not to
complain. His father taught Carlton to give his best effort in whatever he did,
whether he was in the classroom taking a test or at a job site using a hammer.
“My life is a living testament to any young person that anything is achievable if you are willing to
work for it. Being the first to go to college, I did not have a good idea of what I was doing and
where to start. Now that I’ve made it to college I want to help someone else in their college
process through my blogs.”
Clarissa Murphy
Hometown: Cross Plain, WI
College: The Evergreen State College, ‘16
Growing up in the farming industry, Clarissa has determination and a strong
work ethic to excel in college, where she plans to study sustainable agriculture
with a focus on organic horticulture.
“Conversation and interaction with others is an incredible source of knowledge and I thrive on
learning from others. Spending time with others, especially my family and friends, is my favorite
way to spend my time. I am so looking forward to everything this upcoming year has to offer and
am excited to share some of it with other students!”
Duong Cody Thach
Hometown: Ontario, CA
College: Pomona College, ‘16
Despite the Asian stereotype of math and science, Cody could never resist the
joy he received when studying English, which he studies as a current student at
Pomona College.
“I love the combination of logic, persuasion, and stylistic flair that makes up rhetoric. And I fancy
a good argument. I like to think that’s the main reason I like English so much—the fact that all
things written have a set purpose, and that the writer uses language to convince and convey an
argument to his or her intended audience.”
Ese Uwhuba
Hometown: Mesa, AZ
College: University of Pennsylvania, ‘16
Ese was born in Nigeria and spent most of her childhood there. When she was
11, her parents moved the family to the U.S. in search of better opportunities
for their children.
“As a first generation college student, I was given little chance to succeed and often had to hunt
for the resources I needed. I always found myself going to my high school’s career center, a
very dear place to me, where I found and applied to several scholarships and summer
programs. I can now say that I am very excited to share my college experience as it happens.”
Ivania Zepeda
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
College: Brown University, ‘16
Ivania grew up in a predominantly Latino community in Los Angeles. Despite
her community's lack of motivation, Ivania managed to become the first person
in her family to go to college.
“In short, my ultimate goal is to rise above all the relentless work and go to law
school. I intend to use my education to advocate for the women I identify with – those within the
community who are hard-working but often held back by family violence and socioeconomic
struggles. I strive to create a legal change that will assist poor, Latina women and children who
grew up without a father.”
Maggie Acosta
Hometown: Kansas City, MO
College: Bowdoin College, ‘16
Maggie is a first-generation college student and first-time blogger who is a
really interested in blogging. She has joined several clubs and organizations, is
staying on top of her academics, and making the most of her college
experience.
“I feel like I graduated [high school] forever ago even though it was pretty recent! I was pretty
active with sports in school; I did tennis, cross country, swim, soccer, and track and I STILL love
sports. I'm not very artsy, although I wish I were. I like to learn… weird, I know. But you can
teach me practically anything and I'd be interested! That's pretty much me in a nutshell, if you
have any questions, just feel free to ask and to get to know me!”
Tyler Lattimore
Hometown: Gainesville, FL
College: Emory University, ‘16
From having dinner with a Supreme Court Justice to studying abroad in Spain,
Tyler has been able to take advantage of every opportunity in his path. Now, as
a current student at Emory University, Tyler has ventured out into the world on
his own so he can make his family proud!
“My dream is to either practice law or become a politician (maybe both) helping those in need,
people wanting better for themselves and their families, and those who simply are trying to live
their dream. I look forward to being a part of the CSO community inspiring others who have
overcome adversities and strive to realize their own dreams.”
College Class of 2015
Alexis Montes
Hometown: National City, CA
College: University of Rochester, ‘15
Academics were hardly a priority Alexis’s family. His family had bigger things to
worry about, like if they were going to be able to pay the rent. Alex grew up
very quickly, having to deal with the harsh realities of poverty and violence in
his neighborhood and within his family. He eventually made it his goal to be the first in his family
to go to college in order to pursue success and his own personal enlightenment.
“My faith and my education now carry me to uncharted paths, away from a past filled with grief
and guilt. I’m prepared to say goodbye to old friends and family and finally focus on myself and
my education wholeheartedly. Thank you to those who loved me when I didn’t love myself,
those who believed that I could make it.”
Cynthia Cruz
Hometown: Chicago, IL
College: Illinois Wesleyan University, ‘15
Cynthia was born and raised in Chicago, IL. She is the daughter of a deceased
father and a mother suffering from Lupus. Despite these unthinkable tragedies,
she continues to pick herself up from every obstacle as she strives to be the
first in her family to attend college. She majors in Mathematics Special
Education with a minor in Hispanic Studies.
“I am a special education major because of personal reasons; some of the most amazing
people in my life are individuals with special needs and I feel I’m "called" to help educate them
and others who might have some difficulties with learning.”
Joey Lynn
Hometown: Pelham, GA
College: University of Georgia, ‘15
Joseph was born in Florida but soon after moved to a small town in southern
Georgia. Due to some setbacks that occurred, he left high school for a year.
After working in the construction business for a year, he decided to go back to
high school. He worked extremely hard and graduate from high school with honors. He is
currently double majoring in Social Studies Education and History at The University of Georgia.
“The town in which I attended school was relatively poor, but luckily, it furnished its students
with some of the best teachers in the nation. I was encouraged to take challenging courses,
made even harder by the fact that I was behind in credit an entire year. With the help of my
teachers, though, I made it through those classes. A few anxiety-filled months later, I was
accepted to the University of Georgia, and soon after that, I graduated as an honor graduate
from my high school.”
Julianna Moreno
Hometown: Houston, TX
College: Texas State University at San Marcos, ‘15
Julianna grew up with a caring family, her parents were able to manage their
income and she always had what she needed. However, her junior year at high
school, her life took a completely different direction. Julianna’s parents started
having problems and in less than a year, she went through domestic violence, parents
separated, and she and her siblings were left without a home. However, she didn’t let this
discourage her. On the contrary, it made Julianna strive towards the education she needed in
order to be successful in the future.
“Everyone has their own story and certain situations they overcome, but I am glad this was
mine, because it changed me for the better. I transformed into a stronger person and I became
more responsible and mature. I've learned that life is full of obstacles, life is not fair, and that life
can be devastating and fearful at times. However, I believe I am prepared to face the next
chapter of my life and I am very grateful for this opportunity to blog about my experiences
throughout my college years.”
Lauren Mayo
Hometown: Marietta, GA
College: University of Georgia, ‘15
Though peers and teachers always underestimated her abilities, Lauren has
always persevered. She deflated every statistic and judgment and is now
attending the University of Georgia.
“Being a Black girl and not coming from the idealistic two parent household never served as an
excuse for mediocrity. I even was accepted to the university of my dreams.”
Long Dang
Hometown: Dorchester, MA
College: Williams College, ‘15
Born in the Philippines, Long moved to Vietnam when he was four and then to
the United States at the age of seven. As a current senior, he has embraced
his a liberal arts education and has been exposed to new subjects, such as Art
History and Arabic.
“One day, I hope to return to urban communities to help provide opportunities for students to
succeed. I want to be able to provide resources and support for students who don’t have all the
necessities to compete with their affluent counterparts. I want to help students in urban
communities so that they can have a better chance at achieving a higher education.”
Madison Zollner
Hometown: Marthasville, MO
College: Missouri University of Science and Technology, ‘15
Growing up with a parent with a disability, Madison had to take on the role of
an adult at a very early age. Despite working 30+ hours a week, taking college
level classes and participating in after school activites, Madison maintained a
3.9 GPA throughout high school. Madison continues to use her love of learning and the support
of her parents as encouragement as a current student at Missouri Univertsity of Science and
Technology.
“My mother set up a school in our basement when I was four years old. I went to Kindergarten
knowing the alphabet, numbers and how to read and write-but most importantly, I knew the
value of learning and I knew school was going to be fun. My mother instilled in me that I could
do whatever my heart desired, as long as I worked hard in school and went to some place
called “college.””
Minh Ngoc Nguyen
Hometown: Leslie, GA
College: Yale University, ‘15
Born in Vietnam and coming to the States at the age of 10, Minh was not too
fond of her new home. However, she managed to excell academically even
when she had to help her parents and brother tend to their farm. As a first
generation college student and self-proclaimed movie buff, Minh is making the most of her time
at Yale University.
“Of course, I would not be where I am today without the wonderful "support system" that is my
family, friends, teachers, and LEDA (summer program for students of underrepresented
backgrounds at colleges in America). They believed in me when I was too chicken to believe in
myself.”
Nahomi Velasquez
Hometown: Fresh Meadows, NY
College: Boston University, ‘15
Born and raised in Queens, New York, Nahomi grew up ina traditional Hispanic
household. She has strong admiration for a her mother, a single parent, and
aspires to be as nuch of a hard worker as her mother is. Growing up in a
poverty stricken neighborhood and living with the absence of her father, Nahomi used those
negative factors to be her motivation to excel academically, which she continues to do as she
attends Boston University.
“By definition an opportunity is a chance, even perhaps a risk. I think you should take a chance
on me because I am a very determined, high motivated and responsible individual. Although I
have faced several obstacles growing up, those obstacles have never impeded my development
as a person and have never prevented me from achieving my goals.”
Rodney Savannah
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
College: University of Southern California, ‘15
Originally from Los Angeles, CA, Rodney had to overcome several misfortunes
experience by him and his family. Rodney decided to focus on school and has
been a stellar student in high school. Attending University of Southern
California, Rodney has excelled academically and has been a great role model for his younger
sisters.
“College to me means a new beginning. It is the chance to erase all my past misfortunes and
make a better life for my family and me. My ultimate goal though is to start my own scholarship
foundation that offers not only financial assistance, but also mentorship and support to the youth
of my community. I will not base my success primarily on how much I have accomplished, but
on how many people I have helped obtain a college education as well.”
College Class of 2014
Abigail Macias
Hometown: Sparks, NV
College: Dartmouth College, ‘14
Not having a dollar to her name, the daughter of Mexican immigrants, and the
product of the “ghetto”, Abigail has used her experiences to challenge herself
and to succeed. She is a 2014 graduate of Dartmouth College and currently
working in Washington, DC Public Charter schools.
“I don’t allow myself to be swept away by another person’s beat; I grab some drums and start a
parade. For me, college won’t be a time to live recklessly or selfishly, but rather a time for me to
further my goals, make an impact on whomever I meet, and become a better leader.”
Irvin Gomez
Hometown: Waukegan, IL
College: Dartmouth College, ‘14
Irvin is the proud son of Mexican immigrants who left it all behind in order for
him to achieve a better education and by consequence, a better future. Irvin
graduated with the honor of being the first male Latino salutatorian from his
high school and was the first in his family to graduate from college in 2014 from Dartmouth
College.
“I am the first in my family to attend college in the United States so I am lighting the path for my
younger brother as well as for the large Latino community in which I live. I consider myself
privileged to have been given the support and the resources to attend college and thus, I feel
the responsibility to show others the way. In addition, I believe that the greatest way to honor
the sacrifice of my parents is by earning a degree from Dartmouth and proudly handing it to
them.”
Jenny Luong
Hometown: Oakland, CA
College: Amherst College, ‘14
Growing up in Oakland amidst violence and drugs, Jenny wants to ensure that
no other kids are forced to feel the fear she felt during a short, one-block walk
to her friend’s house. She attended and graduated from Amherst with the goal
of becoming a doctor and helping her community become a less violent place.
“I will not be another high school dropout. I will not be another drug addict. I want my future, and
I will not let low expectations bring me down. I will further my education and seek the many
possibilities the future has in store.”
Jeremy Harris
Hometown: Chicago, IL
College: University of Missouri, ‘14
Jeremy was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois on the West Side where
senseless youth violence is prevalent and graduation from high school is not
the goal for many youth today. He is proud to be breaking that trend and is
attending University of Missouri to become an Actuarian.
“As I head to Columbia, Missouri (Mizzou) to attend the University of Missouri, I realize how
blessed I am. I’m still alive. I’m not a statistic. I have a great mom, an awesome stepdad who
has been in my life for twelve years and an older brother who’s set an example for me by
staying out of trouble.”
Jordan Lillegard
Hometown: Long Beach, CA
College: University of Southern California, ‘14
At the age of three, Jordan’s mother left his biological, drug dealing father.
Despite not having a stable home to call his own and time spent living in a
battered women’s shelter, Jordan focused on his studies and made his lifelong
dream of going to USC come true. Jordan graduated from USC In 2014.
“I do not need to follow in my father’s footsteps, for I am different. He has spent over half of his
life in prison but I use that as motivation to be as successful as I possibly can be. I have
dedicated myself fully to my schoolwork, for I know that my studies are what will make me
successful in the future.”
Leah Jean-Louis
Hometown: Cambridge, MA
College: Swarthmore College, ‘14
As the sixth child out of nine in her Haitian family, Leah took on the role as
caretaker while her older siblings worked to contribute to her family‟s income.
Despite many day-to-day hardships such as not having hot water, college was
always a dream for Leah. In 2014 , Leah made that dream come true by graduating from
Swarthmore College with a degree in engineering.
“My parents didn’t go to college. They received their high school diploma in their motherland. My
older siblings didn’t know about the process either. They all applied to only one school. They
didn’t have any choices. Things were simple for them. But that’s not how I want my future to be.
I want to have choices. I want to be in control of my future.”
Lot Kwarteng
Hometown: Bronx, NY
College: Miami University, ‘14
As a son of immigrants from Ghana, Lot involves himself in developing
multicultural awareness. He has witnessed poverty, broken homes and a
lackluster education system, but seeing his parents‟ struggle gave him the
motivation to push his academic career to new heights. He selected Miami due to its
powerhouse reputation in the academic fields, retaining students and professors who he
believeswill challenge his cognitive skills. In 2014,Lot graduated from Miami University.
“Our view of race, socioeconomics and background tends to affect us as individuals. Many
African Americans fall victim to social stereotypes and, even though blacks in this country face
obstacles, it should never be an excuse for holding back. I chose not to be a victim of my
circumstances. Although my parents never attended college that should never be an excuse for
me not to succeed. Although the statistics say that young black males have a diminished
chance of success, I prove them wrong every day.”
Shaun Devlin
Hometown: Canton, IL
College: Washington and Lee University, ‘14
Born amidst thousands of acres of cornfields in central Illinois, Shaun
possesses an interested in learning and seeing new things. She is attended
and graduated from Washington and Lee University, where she earned her
degree in Politics and Spanish. She hopes to attend law school and a focus on a career in law
or politics with an emphasis in humanitarianism.
“Born and raised in a small town in central Illinois, I was expected to follow in my father’s
footsteps: graduate from the local community high school, settle down in a modest house down
the street, and be content with whatever work I could find in the midst of a thousand acres of
cornfields. While I respected my father, I also knew that I would always be looking for a more
exciting lifestyle; I yearned to know a world guided by intellect and experience.”
College Class of 2013
Angelica Robinson
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
College: Dillard University, ‘13
Having to rebuild her home at age 15 due to Hurricane Katrina showed
Angelica that she had the strength to overcome any obstacle and at the same
time nurtured her passion for writing as an outlet for the horrors she witnessed.
She chose to stay in New Orleans to attend Dillard University where she majored in Mass
Communications/Journalism.
“My mother always told me that education is the only way out, so this [opportunity] will be a
significant stepping stone towards my education at Dillard University, where I'll be able to
contribute to the university by sharing with those around me my life experiences and lessons
learned through writing. I will share my experiences with others through my writing, and allow
them to enter a world that is uniquely my own. Hopefully my writing will inspire and give others
strength to continue fighting their wars and to find the courage to open up their world.”
Ashley Roberts
Hometown: St. Peter, MO
College: Illinois Wesleyan University, ‘13
Following time in foster care and the tragic death of her guardian uncle from
cancer, Ashley put herself through Illinois Wesleyan University, refusing to
become a statistic like her alcoholic, drug addict mother. She graduated in
2013 and is currently pursuing a Masters degree.
“I have more of a want and need to go to college than anyone I know. I am putting myself
through college and some are still telling me that I shouldn't bother. I refuse to let that happen. I
am not nor will I ever be a statistic. I have reached a point in my life where I have finally been
given the chance to show that I am my own person. This is my opportunity to be who I am and
show what I am capable of succeeding."
Duylam Nguyen-Ngo
Hometown: Richmond, VA
College: University of Virginia, ‘13
Despite growing up in a dangerous neighborhood, Duylam, a budding
entrepreneur of Asian-American descent, earned a business degree from UVA.
His single mother inspired him to be the first in his family to go to college.
“No one in my family ever went to college but I knew I wanted to set a precedent for my entire
family.”
Jesse Sanchez
Hometown: San Diego, CA
College: Harvard University, ‘13
Jesse, who aspires to be the first Latino mayor of San Diego, overcame
poverty and gangs to go to Harvard as not only the first person in his family to
attend college but also as a source of pride for his culture and community. In
2014, Jesse made his dreams come true by graduating from Harvard University. Jesse is
currently a Fulbright Scholar in Mexico.
“Even though I dreamed of going to college, the negative social stigmas that resonate through
my neighborhood almost led me to give up on that dream. I hope to be the role model that many
of the students in my community lack. I want to prove that academic success is possible, no
matter what obstacles one may face.”
Joe Dingman
Hometown: Pueblo, CO
College: Occidental College, ‘13
Aspiring politician Joe Dingman hails from Pueblo, CO and after serving as a
delegate to The American Legion’s Boy’s Nation and working on numerous
campaigns for prominent Federal, State, and Local lawmakers, he attended
Occidental College as the first in his family to go to college and graduated In 2013.
“I am tremendously fortunate to have beacons of support who made my college goals
attainable. I know people live their entire lives for the realization of a college education.”
Khadijah Williams
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
College: Harvard University, ‘13
Never having had a stable place to live, Khadijah has made education her
anchor and is thrilled to have achieved her dream of leaving Skid Row and
attending Harvard. As a homeless student, she has a unique perspective on
education and hopes to contribute to the improvement of urban schools. Despite her obstacles
In her life, Khadijah graduated from Harvard University in 2013 and is currently working in the
Washington, DC Metro area.
"Because my mentors have shown kindness for me, I am committed to giving back in the same
way. As an individual who has been through many setbacks and has succeeded despite
obstacles, I understand what it takes to succeed. I am committed to passing on the knowledge
and the tools for success to tomorrow's youth.”
Lysa Vola
Hometown: Jensen Beach, FL
College: Williams College, ‘13
Adopted at the age of five along with five of her siblings, Lysa has overcome
many hardships including her dad becoming disabled, her parents’ divorcing
and filing bankruptcy, and the necessity to predominantly raise her younger
sibling while juggling her academics and extracurricular activities. Despite these challenges,
Lysa excelled academically and graduated from Williams College with plans to become a
pediatrician.
“I never pictured high end colleges to be affordable for my family. I always had the drive to
succeed in reaching all of my goals; I just lacked the financial assistance in doing so.”
Seanna Leath
Hometown: North Little Rock, AR
College: Pomona College, ‘13
Originally from North Little Rock, AR, Seanna traveled close to 2,000 miles to
attend Pomona College in California, where she studied science and medicine
to prepare her for a career that will enable her to improve her family’s life as
well as the condition of countless others. Seanna is a 2013 graduate of Pomona College.
“I feel the next step in advancing my life experience is my journey to college. While high school
has set the foundation for my thirst in learning, college is the next phase: the sunrise on my
horizon.”