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“I was raised by my single mother and grandmother, moving frequently and witnessing the effects of gentrification on my community. School was challenging, especially with writing, but I worked hard and advanced to higher classes. As the first in my family to pursue a four-year university, I took on extra responsibilities, including organizing school events. My grandmother questioned why I wanted to leave for college, and while I explained my hard work, her concerns planted seeds of doubt. With support from Circle Match, I navigated the college application process and kept pushing toward my dream.”

“Working hard throughout high school, I was set to be salutatorian of my graduating class and knew that attending a 4-year college was within my reach. However, I had a dream of attending Stanford—it’s this reason that I initially sought extracurricular college advising programs and joined the Circle Match community.”

“I spent my early childhood living in the small city of Azogues, located in Ecuador. Just north of Cuenca, my hometown was known for its mountainous terrain and the large steps leading up to the cathedral that stands at one of the highest points in the city. Living near the foot of those steps, I have vivid memories of admiring my grandmother. She was a teacher who worked with at-risk youth in the city, and she always emphasized the importance of prioritizing one’s education.”

“Growing up in a community impacted by environmental challenges, I became passionate about addressing climate change, especially after seeing my grandfather’s health suffer from poor air quality and extreme heat. Despite doubts about my future, joining Circle Match gave me the confidence to apply to college. With guidance from mentors who shared my background, I overcame self-doubt and was admitted to UCLA. Now, as a freshman focused on tackling climate change, I’m determined to turn my dreams into reality and help others from my community do the same.”