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If you had asked me a year ago what my future looked like, I’m not sure I would have had a clear answer.
After high school, I felt stuck. I wanted to stay close to home, but with only one local four-year university and the high cost of tuition and living expenses, my options felt limited. I didn’t get into Cal Poly, and I didn’t want to take on a financial burden that would follow me—or my family—for years.
At one point, I remember thinking, I’m running out of options.
Then I heard about The Cuesta Promise.
Choosing Cuesta College changed everything for me.
Today, I’m studying biology and working toward my goal of becoming a pediatrician. I’ve had professors who know my name and truly care about my success. I’ve found support not just academically, but personally—through resources like mental health services and a community that wants me to succeed.
Through The Cuesta Promise and scholarship support, I’ve been able to focus on my education instead of financial stress. Receiving that support felt like someone was saying, “We believe in you.” And that belief matters more than I can put into words.
Now, I’m not just going to college—I’m building a future.
As high school seniors across San Luis Obispo County make their college decisions, I hope they know this: Choosing Cuesta is not a backup plan. It’s a powerful first step.
Because of Cuesta—and because of donors who invest in students like me—I’m on my way to becoming a pediatrician our community needs.
And one day, I hope to give back in the same way—so another student can feel what I felt: that someone believes in them.
With gratitude,
Samantha
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