Precious is a senior at Thomas Jefferson High School and dreams of owning her own business one day. She will be the first in her family to attend college and is so excited for what's to come.
Why is going to college is important to you?
Going to college is important to me because neither of my parents attended college, so education has always been important to me. I’m so excited to have the opportunity to go myself and have the chance to better not only my life, but also my family’s life.
Why did you decide to apply to AO?
I was in my AVID class my sophomore year and I remember hearing about the program and everything AO would help with. Applying to college and financial aid were all things that I didn’t understand, but AO would be there to help.
What do you like most about the AO program?
I love that you have open ears. You’re willing to listen to us, and always give us the best advice and guidance. A lot of students don’t have that kind of mentorship and they struggle because they don’t know where to go. I feel so lucky to have that. I’ve received help with so much – how to get to college, how to apply to scholarships, and how to network.
How is AO making a difference in your life?
It’s made a big difference. Like I said, neither of my parents attended college, so they didn’t know anything about the process of applying to college or about scholarships and financial aid. AO has helped make my dream come true of going to college. I’m thankful for that and I’m so excited. I’ve also learned how to become more independent and started to learn how to guide myself.
What is your dream job?
I want to go into business management. I decided this because I love volleyball, so I’d love to have my own business, running volleyball clubs and also making it affordable for kids. Hopefully one day I can offer free volleyball clinics, and help kids learn how to destress and find a new hobby.
Tell us about some of the activities you’re involved in.
At my church, I altar serve and help with religious classes. At school, I help with homecoming, pep rallies, and afterschool activities through my leadership class. I’m also involved in the Hispanic-Latino Club. We learn more about our culture and over the holidays, we made Christmas cards for kids at the border.
What advice would you give to younger students?
I would tell younger students to always stay on track and keep up with the work, but also use all of your resources and if you don’t understand, go get help. Teachers are willing to help you succeed.
Who is your biggest role model?
My mom is my biggest role model. She has always been motivating and always pushes me to do what’s best for me. Even though she didn’t go to college, she’s been there to help me every step of the way.
Tell us something interesting we might not know about you?
I won a scholarship last year through Ocean First that allowed me to get scuba certified (along with fellow AO student Emily). We had to do a one-minute video about what we would do to help the environment. I got my scuba certification in Boulder and then had the opportunity to go to Florida to scuba dive – it was amazing!
Comments