As an immigrant parent and member of the Danbury community, I know how overwhelming the college application process can be, especially for families navigating it for the first time in a new country. Many immigrant parents want to help their children succeed but face obstacles, like language barriers, unfamiliarity with the U.S. education system, and limited access to reliable information. These obstacles can prevent talented students from reaching their full potential.

To help address this, I launched BRIDGING FUTURES through the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI). This project provides parents with simple steps to support their children’s academic journeys. I advise parents to engage in regular talks with their kids about college, start volunteering in middle school, and not wait until senior year to get involved. Waiting too long can make the process stressful and hurt a student’s chances of success.

Teenagers should begin researching early, using online resources, school counselors, and community organizations. Building a strong profile involves maintaining good grades, taking challenging honors or AP classes, and staying involved in extracurricular activities such as clubs, sports, or community service. Volunteering and building relationships with teachers and mentors can lead to valuable letters of recommendation. Preparing for standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT early can improve scores, while writing unique, compelling essays can make applications stand out. Visiting college campuses and participating in youth programs can inspire students and provide networking opportunities.

Applying for multiple scholarships, especially smaller local awards, increases chances of financial aid. Persistence is key and rejections are part of the process. Many students qualify for private scholarships from middle school onward, making college more affordable. Supporting teens in setting goals and fostering their ambitions benefits not just the individual but also their families and communities. Encouraging youth to dream big and take proactive steps today opens the door to higher education and a brighter future.

My vision for BRIDGING FUTURES is rooted in creating a community in which every student, regardless of background or circumstances, has access to the resources, support, and encouragement needed to succeed in college. I believe that education is a powerful tool for transforming lives, not just for individual students, but for entire families and communities. I envision a future in which immigrant families, who often face additional barriers, are fully empowered to navigate the college process confidently and independently.

Supporting our youth today isn't just about ensuring individual success; it's about laying the foundation for a more inclusive, equitable, and thriving community in the future. When families are informed and empowered, they contribute to stronger neighborhoods and a more just society. My hope is that BRIDGING FUTURES becomes a catalyst for change, helping every student realize their potential and achieve higher education.

I am grateful to PLTI for helping me realize that success in this country is possible through hard work. I am proud to be the mother of a UConn scholar, and I continue to guide my younger son and others through my project, BRIDGING FUTURES. For more information about PLTI visit https://fnwc.org/plti