From Our Scholars

Experiences from our alumni.

“PreCollegiate made a big impact navigating me towards college. When I was accepted into the program in seventh grade, I knew I wanted to go to college, but wasn’t aware of anything else. PreCollegiate guided me a lot of the way. This program helped me by expanding my horizons. It encouraged me to apply to places that were far away, helped me prepare for the ACT and supported me in taking advanced classes throughout high school. The summer programs reassured me on my work ethic and made me conclude that going off to college was possible. Overall, PreCollegiate granted me the support and opportunities a first-generation student needs.”

– Rubi Ariza, Class of 2016

“The summer programs where my favorite part about PreCollegiate, simply because I developed relationships with people who are now a huge part of my life, and whom now have a special place in my heart. It is amazing to see the things everyone has accomplished throughout our high school journey, and I am eager to see where their next journey takes them. Thanks to this program I have benefited from not only getting to know amazing people, but also people who have been an extraordinary support system. Without a doubt I am truly blessed to have had the chance of being a part of the PreCollegiate family.”

– Yesica Ramirez, Class of 2016

“Being part of the PreCollegiate program is such an amazing opportunity for first-generation students. Being a part of this program has given me the opportunity to seek beyond my high school education and at the same time have a better future not only for myself but for my family. This program gave me amazing connections because no matter how tough things can get out there, this program always has those contacts to reach out to and ask for help. I am very grateful for PreCollegiate.”

Jonathan Vigil, Class of 2023

“Precollegiate is a selective program that helps first-generation students pursue higher education. But to me, it was so much more than that. Not only did they help me and all the other students get into college, they more importantly helped us to become better people. Throughout the time I spent in PreCollegiate, I made so many friends and got to take so many opportunities that I otherwise would not have been able to do, such as college tours. They helped me to find my identity and the right place in a university I love. I know I will reach my dreams of becoming a teacher and helping the next generation.”

Aleyda Loya, Class of 2023

“PreCollegiate was incredibly helpful for me, in more ways than just one. Besides being an incredible support team for the actual college application process as a whole, I felt like the staff was really there to also listen and offer a shoulder to cry on. If it wasn’t for PreCollegiate I honestly don’t think I would be able to be where I am today. I would have felt that much more behind my peers and been trying to figure things out on my own, because despite my parents encouraging me to go to college we truly had no idea what we were doing. Having this program that connects and supports first-gen students is really amazing and I’m so grateful that I got to be a part of it.”

Frida Rojo, Class of 2023