Miguel Garcia* joined our Latino Youth Leadership Academy (LYLA) in sixth grade. Three times a week, LYLA students participate in a curriculum centered on leadership development, empowerment, and academic support. At the beginning of the program though bright and kind, Miguel was shy and sat out of activities. LYLA staff encouraged Miguel and praised him for his hard work and effort and he grew more expressive and engaged in the program. His mom encouraged him, provided him with transportation and served as a great source of support at home.

In ninth grade, Miguel entered a DeKalb County charter school after much deliberation. Miguel continued as a LYLA participant throughout high school. He also joined our mentoring program and was matched with a mentor who helped him achieve high grades and provided guidance on navigating high school. A trip to Georgia Tech’s GoSTEM fair exposed Miguel to different careers and roused his interest in pursuing a career in a STEM field.

In 2019, Miguel attended our annual Latino Youth Leadership Conference at Kennesaw State University. He fell in love with the campus and wanted to apply but was unsure of all of the steps involved. So, Miguel and his mother sat side-by-side in our inaugural “Pathway to College” series, a five-part virtual program which addressed college admissions, financial aid, and career pathways with students and their families. Following the series, Miguel also received 1-on-1 coaching through our senior advising college initiative. His mother continued to support him through the whole application process. “I was so happy to see Patrick’s mom accompany him throughout this journey and to see the communication they have between them. This is the example of parents and first-generation students learning together about the ‘Pathway to College,’” said Alejandra Garcia, youth program coordinator. Ultimately, Miguel’s hard work, gained self-confidence, and family’s support paid off – he was accepted to Kennesaw State University and received the Pell Grant and HOPE scholarship to fund his studies.

*Name has been changed to protect student's anonymity.

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