College Promise Fellows
Willis Allen - Junior at Queens University of Charlotte; Sustainability Science
Why You Wanted to Be a Fellow:
This is my second year as a fellow and last years experience was really positive for me. I feel as though through shared experiences my mentees and I both have the benefit of growing personally.
One piece of advice to a high school senior making the transition after graduation:
This time frame in your life is a roller coaster. There are going to be moments when you aren’t motivated or happy with the way this is going. There are also going to be moments of extreme highs. My piece of advice is to stay grounded and remember that discomfort is the price of admission to a meaningful life.
Vanaya Henderson - 4th Year Student at North Carolina A&T State University; Professional Theatre
Why You Wanted to Be a Fellow:
I wanted to be a fellow to share knowledge as a transfer student and to give back to the Student U Community.
One piece of advice to a high school senior making the transition after graduation:
Don’t be afraid to make changes, others will see that you’re fearless and will follow.
Fahsyrah Knight - Senior at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University; Kinesiology concentration in Business Administration
Why You Wanted to Be a Fellow:
I think it is important to give back and help assist the mentees in navigating their way through all the social and academic challenges they may be facing. Thus, by drawing on my own personal experiences as senior this year in college
One piece of advice to a high school senior making the transition after graduation:
It is important to keep a positive outlook and have positive people in your lives that you interact with and to find a support system within your new environment.
Yoximara Lopez Herrera - Junior at Durham Techincal Community College, transferring to North Carolina Central University; Elementary Education
Why You Wanted to Be a Fellow:
This will be my second year as a fellow, I'm excited to share my experience from graduating from community college and the transfer process to a 4-year college/university.
One piece of advice to a high school senior making the transition after graduation:
Practice self-care, your mental health is really important for you to stay on track of your goals & to make sure that you are happy with what you are doing and just pamper yourself.
Rachel Rivera - Junior at UNC Charlotte; Psychology
Why You Wanted to Be a Fellow:
To connect to all mentees and help them navigate through struggles I have experienced and to be an advocate or resource for younger Student U generations.
One piece of advice to a high school senior making the transition after graduation:
Even the best of us need help sometimes, so don’t be afraid to ask for it.
Gisel Silva - Junior at Meredith College; Mathematics
Why You Wanted to Be a Fellow:
I wanted to be a fellow because Student U has supported me through my highs and lows and so its only right to give back to my community and support others!
One piece of advice to a high school senior making the transition after graduation:
Never feel scared to ask for help or advice so you can be the best you can be.
Gianelly Vargas Santos - Senior at UNC Wilmington; Public Health, Preclinical Concentration (Pre-Dental Track)
Why You Wanted to Be a Fellow:
I want to be a fellow because I want to give back to the Student U family. Being a fellow will allow me to continue to grow as a leader and mentor. This will be my second year as a Student U fellow. I want to share my experiences as a first-generation college student while also being a minority at a predominantly white institution. I believe I can be very resourceful for the students and offer guidance, insight and the support they need for their first year in college.
One piece of advice to a high school senior making the transition after graduation:
Do not lose sight of what brought you this far. Keep working hard and believing in yourself. Student U will always be here for you. Remember this journey was not made to be taken alone. Look for your team and community in the new space you're at, you will need it.
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