“The experience that I gained as a participant in the Hacia program gave me the necessary tools to be prepared for college and succeed. As a first-generation student I had no understanding about college enrollment or what career path I wanted. I discovered the Hacia program in my freshman year of high school and decided to join, I was an active participant all throughout high school. Through the workshops that Hacia offered my parents and I gained valuable knowledge and confidence about the college transition process. After I graduated from high school, I knew I wanted to give back to my community and help those who were in the place where I had been. Thankfully, I was given the opportunity to work alongside families as a tutor, intern, and as facilitator for Hacia.”