Nicole Reyes, a sophomore at the University of Miami, is currently pursuing a major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with a minor in Psychology on a pre-medical track. Just two years ago, she was finishing her senior year of high school while dual-enrolled in Champions For Learning’s Take Stock in Children and College and Career Preparation Programs.
Her journey with Champions For Learning began as an 8th-grade student through the Take Stock in Children program, which promotes
college and career readiness while providing positive mentorship. At the time, she didn’t fully understand how significant the program would be in shaping her future. Nicole grew up with immigrant parents who arrived in the United States as teenagers. Her mother enrolled in high school as an 11th grader and worked tirelessly to pursue higher education while learning English. Even while raising a child as a single parent, she attended college full-time and worked to support her family. Her mother’s determination to earn a bachelor’s degree and overcome the challenges of the language barrier is a driving force behind Nicole’s own pursuit of success.
Currently in her second year of undergraduate studies, Nicole is on track to pursue a career in medicine. Her passion for the medical field was ignited at the age of 13 when her grandfather, who lived in Peru, was diagnosed with cirrhosis. This disease ultimately led to his passing, and just three years later, her great uncle fell victim to the same illness. Witnessing the similar fate of her loved ones, Nicole realized the devastating truth of healthcare disparities, especially in other countries. This experience inspired her to work toward bridging the gap in healthcare, and it was through Champions For Learning that she has gained the confidence and guidance to navigate her educational journey.
The Take Stock in Children program paired with Nicole with a volunteer mentor, Debra Ezzell, whose support has been invaluable. Throughout middle school and high school, they would meet weekly to discuss a variety of topics, ranging from schoolwork and career goals to weekend plans. Debra always instilled confidence in Nicole, reassuring her that with hard work and perseverance, she could accomplish anything. Over the years, Debra has become more than just a mentor; she is a trusted friend, and Nicole is deeply grateful for their companionship, which would not have been possible without Champions For Learning.
In addition to mentorship, Champions For Learning provided Nicole with vital tools and skill-building opportunities throughout high school, ensuring she was prepared for each academic year. The weekly workshops played an essential role in areas such as SAT preparation, college applications, and scholarship research. Nicole credits the College and Career Preparation Program for helping her make the most of her junior and senior years of high school. Through these resources, she became aware of scholarships that have allowed her to graduate college without accumulating debt. Thanks to the support of Champions For Learning, she will graduate with her bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami, a private institution costing $300,000, completely debt-free.
“Each investment to Champions for Learning has allowed the organization to empower the lives of many through education. The continuation of the amazing work they are doing is only made possible by you. I am deeply grateful to all of you for believing in Champions for Learning’s programs, and through that, believing in students like me,” Nicole shared.
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