Ailen grew up with hard-working immigrant parents who had little schooling. They didn’t value education and offered little support for her schooling. One day, she asked her mentor, Diana, if she could possibly go to college. Diana responded with a resounding, “Yes”, and from that moment helped her finish high school with good grades, apply for and receive numerous scholarships, complete her financial aid forms, and apply to and enroll in college.
Ailen was accepted to Eastern Washington University and shortly thereafter, graduated from high school. She was excited about her future possibilities, but soon, fear set in. For many of the young people we work with, their world is very small. Their exposure to new things is limited. Because of this, Ailen became very nervous about venturing into this new college world and she grabbed ahold of what she knew, using the excuse of staying home to take care of her siblings, like she’s always done.
Again, Diana stepped up to help her see what her parents really wanted and how she would best serve them by pursuing her passion and walking through this door of great opportunity. Diana even told her she would take her to college and visit often. With this help, she overcame her fears and began her time in college.
Ailen has completed her first two years and is a straight-A student. She just got married and received an internship with STCU, helping in her pursuit of a career in banking. She is scheduled to finish college early because of her hard work.
Ailen once commented, “This is not just a program… I’m going to talk to her for the rest of my life. I love her.” She talks regularly with her life-long mentor and friend, Diana, sharing life and seeking encouragement and advice.