I served as a Team Leader with Arizona GEAR UP, guiding middle and high school students from low-income communities toward college readiness. In that role, I organized academic workshops, led campus visits, and connected students with mentors and resources that built their confidence and skills. By working closely with teachers, counselors, and community partners, we raised grades, boosted graduation rates, and expanded college enrollment, reflecting my commitment to widening access to higher education and giving back to Arizona.
Semester Zero is a summer bridge program at Northern Arizona University that brings first-generation high school juniors to campus for an immersive preview of college life. As a peer mentor, I guided a small cohort through daily workshops and activities, connecting lessons to their own college plans. My role also included leading reflection circles, answering questions about campus life, and organizing inclusive evening events that built trust and confidence among the students.
