Leslie, Rising Freshman at Illinois State University

“My life would’ve been different in Mexico. The school systems and lifestyles are completely different- lots of my cousins gave up on school. In America, I speak Spanish at home and English at school and with my friends. I was the only hispanic in one of my AP classes. All the other kids grew up in homes with parents that read long books. They would talk about things I’ve never heard of that made me wonder if I should even be there. I couldn’t just ask my family because none of them took those classes, I had to guide myself through it. Having friends in the class was good because when I was lost we were all lost and could figure it out together.

My biggest wish is to graduate college and keep a strong connection with friends and family. Evanston Scholars has helped me to know that I can do it. My parents are very supportive but didn’t know anything about getting into college and now I have the atmosphere and idea that I can make it.

When I got my acceptance folder for ISU I was so happy. It was my first acceptance and I got accepted to 4 of the 5 schools I applied to. My mom was crying and we got pizza. The hard work finally paid off. I’m ready for college and am happy to have a support system that can help me through it.”

​-Leslie, rising freshman at Illinois State University