SMHS Chicano/Latino Studies seniors recently spent some time learning about the Allan Hancock College Puente Program.
The outreach program is designed to help students build the necessary skills for success in both academic and career goals while at AHC. It involves current AHC students giving insightful presentations about succeeding in
the higher education environment.
“I am a Santa Maria High School alumni. Going back to assist students towards their career path is something I enjoy doing. I want to be someone students can come to whenever they have a question or need guidance. As a first-generation college student, I was worried about how my first year in college was going to be. The Puente Program has helped me have a successful transition due to the support of my counselor Cynthia, who is always there whenever I need guidance. As a Puentista, I have been lucky to build an amazing bond with my peers, also known as my familia. I hope students learned more about how great the Puente Program is. I want to see every student succeed in the future.” – Maria Marcial, SMHS Alumni and AHC Puente student.
“As someone who was a first-generation college student, I know how hard and confusing it can be to transfer from Allan Hancock College to the four-year university, which is why I love working with the Puente Program. Puente’s mission is to increase the number of educationally underserved students who enroll in universities, earn college degrees, and give back to their communities.” – Cynthia Diaz, AHC Professor and Counselor.
Students found the candid discussions and information engaging.
“Having AHC Puente come speak to us was an eye-opening experience. Because of family problems, I won’t be able to go straight to a four-year university – even though I have been accepted to both UCs and CSUs. I knew I had the option of transferring from AHC, but I was scared since I heard about people getting stuck at AHC and not transferring. But hearing what Puente has to help students, it brought me hope. I now plan on joining Puente and transferring to a UC from AHC.” – Araceli Hernandez, Senior.
“The Puente Program is a great fit for our first-generation students. This program offers just the type of culturally relevant and affirming mentorship that our community needs to thrive.” – Ricardo Valencia, SMHS Chicano/Latino Studies Teacher.
