Gabriela C. knows firsthand that persistence and dedication are essential for achieving success. Back when she was first introduced to Champions For Learning’s Take Stock in Children program in high school, she was still adjusting to life in a new country. Gabriela and her family immigrated to the United States when she was younger. Despite coming from an academically minded family and a strong desire to pursue postsecondary education, neither Gabriela nor her parents could make sense of the U.S. education system or what steps would be necessary for her to enroll in college. She was overwhelmed and felt stuck until she learned about the support and guidance Champions For Learning’s offers to students like her through the Take Stock in Children program. “I saw it as an opportunity to gain clarity about the college application process and to take advantage of the resources available to help me succeed,” Gabriela states.
Upon entering the Take Stock in Children program in eleventh grade, Gabriela was matched with her Champions For Learning mentor, Judy Dawson. Judy’s positive influence went far beyond academic guidance. She played an instrumental role in supporting Gabriela as she continued to transition to American life, language, and culture. When she first moved to the United States, Gabriela was shy and struggled with her accent, making her hesitant to speak in class or socialize with her peers. Judy always encouraged her to embrace herself and to be proud of her background, reminding Gabriela not to be afraid to speak up and share her thoughts.
Because of Judy’s support and the workshops and lab sessions offered through Champions For Learning, Gabriela built essential foundational skills, along with the confidence to attain higher education by submitting college and scholarship applications. By being involved in our programs, she discovered a path to achieve her academic and professional goals. After graduating from Golden Gate High School in 2014, Gabriela enrolled in Florida Gulf Coast University with double majors in marketing and business management.
Gabriela’s commitment to changing the trajectory of her life through the power of education has truly paid off. She currently works remotely as a Paid Media Analyst, primarily managing higher education institutions who are striving to promote their master’s and PhD programs, for a marketing agency based in Chicago. Her long-term career goal is to further hone her digital marketing skills and advance to a managerial role where she will lead teams and make strategic decisions that drive growth for clients. As an alumna of Champions For Learning’s programs, she remains connected to the organization as a proud and active member of our Alumni Council.
“Overall, Champions for Learning was a key pillar in shaping my future and provided me with the tools I needed to succeed in college and beyond,” Gabriela says.
Champions For Learning can only serve as a key pillar in shaping the futures of students like Gabriela because of the generosity of community members. Our trusted partners share our belief that education is everything and are the foundation that ensures educational attainment is reached by Collier County students from all backgrounds. Will you be counted as our partner to transform lives and strengthen our community by making your gift today?