"I realized that drugs, jail and violence were not themes that would define my existence."

“I was born in Mexico City and came to the U.S. at the age of four with my mother and brother. We moved around until I was 11, when we settled in San Diego. My mother was gone much of the time, working long hours to support us. During those years, I was led astray by the ruses of the street and eventually joined a gang. I began a downward spiral that led to jail.

“With the help of family, friends and teachers in the county court schools, I set out to change my life. I began by earning my high school diploma. But I never thought of college until the court schools’ Dollars for Scholars chapter who encouraged me to enter college by giving me my first scholarship.

“In 2003, I earned a bachelor’s degree with honors in Global Liberal Studies with a concentration in Latin American Studies and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). I am currently pursuing a joint Master’s Degree and credential in the field of special education.

“I have come a long way since my days as a gang member, and I believe my experience and positive outcomes should be the standard and not the exception. I have not forgotten those who have helped me. Dollars for Scholars stands as a beacon of hope for individuals who share my experience.”

 

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