2021 continues to look different for high school and college students, especially low-income, first-generation students who, in some cases, have to choose between entering the workforce to support themselves and help their families and going to college. It is a tough decision to make and with your continued support, CV continues to support students through it by showing them what resources are available. Thank you for your continued support!
What school do you attend and when do you graduate?
I attend Rhode Island Nurses Institute middle College and will graduate this year–2021.
What are some of your favorite hobbies and why?
My favorite hobbies include gardening, reading books (specifically non-fiction), and debating. Debating stimulates my mind and challenges me mentally, while learning from other people’s viewpoints and ideas. Reading and gardening just relaxes me.
How has life changed for you during this pandemic? How is CV helping you get through?
Life has changed for me in many ways during this pandemic. Senior year was supposed to be a year where we have college tours and focus on our academics to get prepared for the college application process. CV has been helping me through these hard times in many ways. During my weekly meetings, my advisor helps me through my college applications and CV has also been hosting virtual college tours from different schools!
How was distance learning going for you? What are you most worried and hopeful about?
I am getting used to distance learning even though sometimes it’s hard because I learn best by hands-on activities. It’s harder for me to find a setting in my house that is comfortable and quiet enough for me to sit there for at least 7 hours and work. I am constantly distracted by my family because I also need to help my siblings with school. I am most worried about my math class because it’s hard learning the materials online and there isn’t enough time to process the information and understand the concepts. I am hopeful about seeing my friends after we go back to school and most importantly looking forward to college and being in a new environment.
What did receiving a forever laptop from COX mean to you? Would you like to say anything to COX?
Receiving a forever laptop from COX meant very much to me. Since the only laptop that I had was from school, it was hard doing research for school and accessing helpful sites since it was always blocked. Receiving this new laptop helped me be able to do my work without blocking me from accessing the information I needed. I would like to say thank you to COX because the laptop has helped me and my family get through this virtual time.
What does being a first-generation college student mean to you?
Being a first-generation college student means being a role model and inspiration to my younger siblings and my community. It also means getting a greater chance at the opportunity to elevate my whole family. In my culture when one succeeds it’s the whole family and community success.
What would you say to donors who are consistently giving to CV and making this resource available to you?
Thank you for your generous donations. You’ve made many resources available for me and it has been helping especially during this pandemic. I didn’t know what I would have done without the help that CV has given me during this time. You truly make a difference for me and other students, and I am extremely grateful!
