What is your hometown? Rancho Cucamonga, CA

What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? University of La Verne, MS
University of La Verne, BS
Mt. San Antonio College, AA

What motivated you to go to college? I returned to college after my marriage ended and I became a single mom of three. I returned to Mt. SAC to finish my education and I needed to make a better life for me and my children. I wanted to be a role model for them and to show them the importance of an education. Returning to college my hope was to create more opportunities for me and my family.

Describe your college experience as first-generation. The first time I came to Mt. SAC my opportunities were few and I did not receive the support I needed to be successful. It wasn't until I returned some years later as a single mom that I found out about the resources available to me.

What unique challenges did you face? The first time I came to Mt. SAC I did not fit the profile of a college student. The other students did not look like me and I did not feel encouraged or supported in my studies.

How did you overcome those challenges? Hard work and determination. Seeking out resources and support in Financial Aid, the Tutoring Center and Faculty.

What did you advise other first-generation students? Keep coming back. Ask questions about resources that can help you be successful. Don't be afraid to do something different.