Student Testimonials
Brenda Gonzalez
"By the age of 16, I already had 2 children. When they were small I tried to go to college after I received my GED. Unfortunately due to complications, I had to drop out and wait until they got older. Most of the jobs I have had took a lot of my family time and the pay was minimal. Now in my 30’s, it was time for me to finish what I started a long time ago. As a single-parent with 3 kids, 17, 16 & 5, I wanted to go back to school, however with work and family I didn’t know how I would find my way back.One day, a friend told me about the College Readiness Program and how they could help me get back into the Community College. As I entered the office, there is where I met Ms. Patricia LaSalle. She was kind, caring, understanding and took the time to hear my thoughts and concerns. It was not complicated to apply, as she guided me through the application process. As I walked out of her office part of the College Readiness Program, I was ecstatic. I am finally on my way to getting my degree in Accounting, something I have always wanted. But going back to school also shows my children that even through the trials and tribulations of life, you can pull through. There are times when I call Ms. LaSalle when I’m not doing well and she is always able to bring me back up. This program has showed me that they are people who care and are willing to go the extra mile to help you!"
~Brenda Gonzalez
CRP Student
Class of 2010
Yakim Parker
"Growing up in poverty and in neighborhoods that usually determines a young brother’s fate can influence many to take the wrong path in life. Going to school was never the path placed in front of me. I never saw myself as a “College Student”, until I met Mr. D. He helped me understand that education was mine to take and that no one could stop me if I didn’t stop myself. There are times when life’s pressures start to build up on me and seem unbearable, but the College Readiness Program helps to keep me grounded. They continue to remind me that it is much harder to live poor for an entire life time than to work hard, receive a degree, and become self- sufficient. Helping young people the way the College Readiness Program has helped me is what I strive for. Applying my degree in Arts within the same communities I was raised in, will help me to accomplish my goals of influencing other young brothers and sisters."
~Yakim Parker
CRP Student
Class of 2011
Luz E. Gonzalez
"I was a single parent struggling to make sure my children stayed focus when it came to their education. Now that my children are all grown, I decided it was my turn. Although I wanted a second chance in life, I could not afford it since I live on a fixed income. The College Readiness Program helped me get back into school. Without their financial support and guidance, it would have never happened. As a 52 year old woman, going back was intimidating. I did not know if I could handle it. After meeting with Patricia, I was determined to earn a degree in Business Administration. I can honestly say that I enjoy being at the Community College keeping up with the youngsters’! It is a challenge, but I do learn a lot from them and I love it. I take two classes per semester while working a full time job. More programs, like the College Readiness Program, are needed for families who face hardship. There should be no excuse for anyone not to go back to school to better themselves because “they can not afford it”.
~Luz E. Gonzalez
CRP Student
Class of 2011
Damarys Garcia
“My goals seemed so far off when I was told I didn’t have enough credits to attend the university. My desire of becoming a child psychologist was much stronger than my desire to give up. By enrolling myself into the College readiness Program, I have become closer to achieving my goal. I am excited about the College Readiness Program not only because they are helping me obtain the credits I need to continue my goals, but because I look forward to becoming someone special in a child’s life.”
~Damarys Garcia
CRP Student
Class of 2009
Angelique Robinson
“I am a woman of ethnicity, who comes from a background where a college education is a privilege, not an obligation. Race is inevitable, but my determination is unstoppable. The College Readiness Program believed in me when no one else did, and took a chance on me not knowing what I was capable of. Not only did they give me the financial support I needed, they inspired, encouraged, and motivated me to be great. Going to college was the greatest experience in my life. The College Readiness Program gave me the keys to start the car, only I decide how far to go. With the keys in my hand, the possibilities are endless.”
~Angelique Robinson
CRP Student
Class of 2010
William Lescault
“Right after I got out of high school, I did not have enough money to go to college because the cost was more than I could earn weekly. Just one book alone was $200.00 The College Readiness Program played a big part in my life by helping me with the cost to go to school. They also help me pay for my books. Another great aspect of this program is the advising and counseling they provide. They are always available when you need them. If it was not for this program, I would not be where I am today, well on my way to receiving my degree in Computer Networking.”
~William Lescault
CRP Student
Class of 2010
