Christin Duval
J.R. Tucker High School
College Attending: University of Virginia (Full-Ride Scholarship)
“You have to apply to this program!” I shouted to a freshman I had met at the beginning of my senior year, who had shown interest in attending college. We were at a college fair, and I stood behind a table with a Partnership for the Future (PFF) branded tablecloth. I was wearing my ambassador name tag on top of my seasoned PFF T-shirt. I knew how impactful this program could be for a college-bound student, so I encouraged him to apply, knowing that he would gain access to a well-connected support system.
Like many students in my community, I started high school with the dream of going to college, but I had limited access to the opportunities that could prepare me for it. As a low-income student, numerous barriers stood in my way of obtaining higher education. My family faced significant financial challenges like outstanding debts and unemployment, which limited their ability to fund my goal of attending college. Also, my family had little experience with the college application process, so they were unable to guide me through it. These factors, along with others, made it difficult for me to see college as a possibility. However, when I discovered the opportunities PFF would unlock for me, my dream of attending college quickly became a reality.
In this program, I have been exposed to various educational opportunities that have helped me prepare for higher education despite my circumstances. Through our Cultural Capital Sessions, I have expanded my knowledge and broadened my perspective on the world while building meaningful connections with my peers. During the Friday sessions, I gained insight into topics like college preparation and completing FAFSA, effectively learning how to be successful during the college application process. The financial burden of college seemed less drastic as I became exposed to scholarships through PFF and learned about multiple methods of paying for college. These opportunities, combined with the advice and mentorship of my GUIDES mentor, help me prepare for the college application process and develop essential life skills.
Furthermore, PFF has provided me with the experience to gain valuable workforce skills and prepare for life after college. Through my internship with the Community Impact & Investment Team at Capital One, I have had the opportunity to network with various associates, work on meaningful community-centered projects, and develop a sense of what I want to do. Also, I have been exposed to new environments as I traveled with my manager to different worksites and collaborated with associates from various departments. The invaluable lessons I have learned from my internship have helped me thrive in the workforce environment.
Overall, PFF has created a lasting impact on my ability to dream big and pursue higher education by providing me with the tools and resources to learn, develop, and succeed in life. Now I can look to the future with optimism, empowered by the support PFF has provided me throughout my high school career.