My higher education journey, like many children of immigrants, started with my parent’s dream and decision to migrate to “el norte,” as they called it. My journey to higher education is deeply rooted in my identity as the proud daughter of immigrants and a first-generation college student. My parents, who had access to only a third-grade education, instilled in me the value of hard work and the importance of education, even if the path to college was not clearly defined. Growing up, I was a strong student because it was expected in my household, but I did not initially see myself as “college bound.” I found joy and escape in books at my local public library, spaces that expanded my imagination and — in ways I didn’t yet understand — helped me build skills that would later carry me through my academic journey. After high school, I enrolled at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College to pursue cosmetology, envisioning a career in a vocational field. That experience became a turning point. With the support of a counselor, I began to see new possibilities and transitioned to Los Angeles City College, where I pursued communication studies. 

The Center for Community College Partnerships (CCCP) changed my life, quite literally. When I was introduced to CCCP and participated in the Summer Intensive Transfer Experience (SITE), I was forever transformed. For the first time, I saw a community of students like me — community college students with aspirations of transferring. I began to understand that my background was a source of strength, that I belonged in higher education, and that UCLA was within reach. That experience gave me not only the tools to transfer, but the belief that I could. With a newfound belief in myself, my trajectory took on a narrow focus and allowed me to have the confidence to transfer and graduate from UCLA, pursue graduate education at Harvard and earn a Ph.D. at UCLA. Today, I serve as a dean in the community college system — a true full circle moment. My journey is a testament to the importance of access, second chances, and the life-changing impact of programs like CCCP that center our cultural capital as the source of strength, rather than deficit. 

My time at UCLA was both challenging and deeply rewarding. Balancing work, school and family responsibilities while maintaining strong academic performance was not easy. However, the support I found through CCCP made all the difference. What stands out most is the sense of community and belonging. I built lasting relationships — many of which continue to this day — and even met my life partner. I found joy in the everyday moments: walking across campus, studying in the libraries surrounded by books and ideas, and engaging with professors who pushed me to think critically and grow intellectually. UCLA became my home away from home. It was a place where I felt supported, challenged and inspired. That connection was so meaningful that I began my professional career in student affairs at UCLA and even had the opportunity to give back by working with CCCP. 

Graduating from UCLA was a profound milestone for both me and my family. It represented the realization of my parents’ sacrifices and their unwavering belief in the value of education, even without having experienced it themselves. It affirmed that the foundation they built — of resilience, hard work and love — was one I could continue to build upon. It also marked the beginning of a legacy I hope to carry forward for future generations in my family. Over time, this achievement has taken on even deeper meaning. As a higher education professional, I recognize the importance of representation and the impact of serving as a role model for students who see themselves reflected in my story. 

Today, I serve as the Dean of Equity, Pathways, and Inclusion at Santa Monica College. In this role, I work to advance student success through equitable practices and inclusive institutional strategies. Prior to this, I held similar roles at the Los Angeles Community College District and the University of Southern California. 

CCCP is one of the most transformative programs at UCLA. It centers, supports and empowers students who have been historically marginalized, creating space for them to show up authentically while building the skills and confidence needed to succeed. For me, CCCP was life changing. It helped me see my own potential, connected me to a community, and gave me the tools to navigate the transfer process successfully. It is more than a program — it is a powerful catalyst for opportunity, belonging, and achievement. I am forever grateful to be part of the CCCP familia. 

The power of CCCP cannot be tied to one testimony, or even words. The true power of CCCP is how they made me feel. For the first time in the education system, I felt seen for all that I was, and that I am. It reminds me of the Maya Angelou quote, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” CCCP made me feel that regardless of my zip code, my family income or mixed status, I could do GREAT THINGS. And because of these characteristics, I DID! Thank you for the opportunity to share part of my journey!