Meet the Future: Six First-Gen College Students Taking the Next Step—Thanks to You
Your generosity is opening doors.
This fall, six incredible students from California's vineyard and winery families are heading off to college, each with a scholarship—and a powerful story. These young leaders are breaking barriers, uplifting their families, and redefining what’s possible.
Here’s how your support is helping shape the next generation of changemakers...
Erid — Inventing a Healthier Future
Biomedical Engineering | Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
Most mornings, Erid’s day started before the sun. He walked nearly two miles to school—rain or shine—before diving into a full AP course load. Growing up with 7 siblings, he helped with childcare, chores, and family responsibilities, all while graduating in the top 5% of his class.
His motivation runs deeper than academics. After struggling with undiagnosed hearing loss and watching his family navigate barriers in the healthcare system, Erid found his calling in biomedical engineering. His dream? To invent solutions that unlock answers for families like his own.
Jessica — Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
Clinical Psychology | UC San Diego
Jessica’s drive to pursue clinical psychology began with what she didn’t see: open conversations about mental health. In her community, emotional struggles were often pushed aside, hidden, or silenced. She’s determined to change that.
A first-generation college student Jessica balanced two jobs, four AP classes, and volunteer work with Spanish-speaking students, all while maintaining a clear sense of purpose. Her goal is to become a therapist who helps others feel seen, heard, and supported, especially in communities where mental health is still taboo.
Fabiola — Turning Loss Into Purpose
Radiologic Technology | Mendocino College
Fabiola lost her grandmother in a tragic car accident on her way to work. That loss left an indelible mark, but also a deep desire to help others during their most critical moments.
A proud first-gen student, Fabiola overcame early speech delays and language barriers to thrive in dual-enrollment classes. Today, she serves as Head Tracker on a local search and rescue team. Her next step? A career in radiology, where she’ll continue showing up when people need help the most.
Karitina — Healing Through Psychology
Child Psychology | Sonoma State University
At just four years old, Karitina lost her father. It was a counselor who helped her begin to heal, and now she wants to offer that same care to other children.
Her path hasn’t been easy. When she struggled in AP Spanish Literature, she considered giving up. Instead, she leaned in, seeking help, working harder, and ultimately earning a perfect score on the AP exam. That experience reminded her that growth is always possible, and that healing can lead to purpose.
Martin — Rebuilding with Resilience
Business | Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
The summer before his sophomore year, Martin’s family lost their home to a fire. Rather than retreat, he pushed forward. He spent his days juggling school, soccer, and community service, often leaving at 6:30 a.m. and returning home near 11 p.m., and still earned a 4.0 GPA.
Through Feed the Valley, Martin delivers meals and medications to seniors and low-income families, building real relationships along the way. His dream is to start a business grounded in service—giving back to the people who helped him rebuild.
Evelyn — Leading the Next Generation
Education | Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
Evelyn’s parents never had the chance to finish school. They came to the U.S. for one reason: to give her a better future. She’s honoring that sacrifice by becoming the kind of teacher they never had.
Already a leader in her community, Evelyn has organized book drives that have distributed thousands of books to local kids, and she’s led lessons in elementary classrooms. As a first-gen college student, she’s earning her degree and teaching credential with a clear goal: to create classrooms where every child feels seen and inspired.
These students are just getting started, and your support has helped make their dreams real.
Let’s keep the momentum going.
Every gift helps another student take their first step toward a brighter future.