What is your hometown? Pomona, CA

What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? Mt. Antonio College - A.A. English
UC Riverside - B.A. English

What motivated you to go to college? My mother and grandmother always told me growing up that graduating from college was important. They told me it would open doors both financially and opportunity wise. After watching my mother struggle as a single parent to provide a better life for the both of us made me want to go to college.

Describe your college experience as first-generation.

What unique challenges did you face? It was hard for me to speak up and advocate for myself and my needs. I was afraid that if I told people what I needed they wouldn't help me or invalidate my experiences. Overtime, I was able to open up to trusted staff at Mt. SAC.

How did you overcome those challenges? I became more involved and I opened myself up to new experiences. It was easier to open up once I knew that the people in the programs I was in really cared for me.

What did you advise other first-generation students? You are your best advocate; so make sure you ask for help because only you know what you need to help you succeed.