“The professor saw that I had talent, but he also saw how much I did not know. I never officially learned how to read music. I never practiced or had lessons or anything like that. Once I got to New Orleans, I was practically forced to take music extremely seriously because of where I was and where I wanted to be as a drummer.”

Isaac spent his first year at Tulane, a College Track partner school, immersed in music. In the spring, he successfully tried out for a well-known summer workshop at New Orleans’ Second Line Arts Collective. To finance his participation, Isaac applied for a grant from Tulane’s Office of Academic Enrichment, a resource he’d learned about from his College Track advisor.

“They were very effective in communicating resources on campus that we may not have been aware of, which has definitely worked in my favor,” says Isaac. He has appreciated having regular one on one meetings with his advisor, as well as group meetings with his College Track Tulane cohort. “It’s a way of building community,” says Isaac. “Having that meeting with them every week, and keeping us accountable, and just being more responsible as a Tulane student.”

Now a sophomore, Isaac is minoring in music and majoring in public health. He thinks he’d like to be a hospital administrator, like a man he met through a Tulane networking event. “I want to be on the side where people make decisions, check in with different departments, see how they’re doing, look at all the data and all the numbers and see what we could do to be more efficient,” says Isaac. He is brimming with enthusiasm about the future, both short and long-term. He is excited about becoming a better musician. He is excited about tutoring at College Track New Orleans. He is excited about potentially becoming a resident advisor. He is excited about studying abroad next year. Above all, he is excited about one day buying a house, having a family, and being in a position to support his community back in Prince George’s County.

“A lot of people who are from where I’m from don’t think college is realistic,” says Isaac. I want to change that. If they see more people where they’re from going to college, I feel like that can inspire people to be different and not have to be a product of their environment.”

When Isa flew out for a tour, she quickly bonded with another Hispanic College Track scholar from Los Angeles. Today, they are freshmen at Trinity and the best of friends, providing each other with invaluable social and emotional support at a predominantly white institution.  “To have someone like that on campus is such a nice feeling. I feel like I belong because of her.”

She also has the support of her personal College Track coach, who has been instrumental in connecting her with resources on and off campus. With a sense of belonging and guidance when she needs it, Isa is free to dream big — and she does. Author and professor are among the potential careers she sees for herself, as well as anthropologist for National Geographic, which she has fond memories of watching as a child. “I feel like it makes education accessible to everyone in an entertaining way, so I want to be a part of that,” Isa says. And she is already working to make those dreams a reality. Isa is currently writing an article about her move-in experience for the student newspaper, and is hoping to publish something in the school magazine as well. She’s also developing relationships with her professors, earning their trust in the hopes of participating in research projects when the time comes.

She credits College Track with spurring her to think about what she was passionate about and what she wanted to pursue at an early age. “It’s kind of hard to grasp the idea that you should be thinking about the future when you’re 14, but in our world you have to,” says Isa. “I feel like starting those conversations is the most important thing because it gives you direction.”

Beyond her own ambitions, Isa has a larger hope for the future that includes all of us. “I just wish for us to be more accepting,” she says. “Not only accepting, but educated about our differences. A lot of divisiveness comes from being ignorant. When we make an active effort to educate not only ourselves, but other people about our differences, we learn to appreciate and to accept what makes us different — and find unity in diversity.”

“I think College Track helps you with that a lot — how to interview the people that are interviewing you, how to make sure that this job is the best fit for you,” says Ayanna. She nailed the interview, got the job, and moved to Nashville, where she’ll soon start working. Ayanna’s interest in social justice started early. In high school, she traveled to Uganda and Rwanda to learn about international development through a partnership between College Track and the Global Livingston Institute. In college, she was drawn to classes that explored the criminal justice system, how society perceives people with a criminal background and whether prison was purely punitive or could be rehabilitative as well. “I was like, oh, this is what I want to learn,” says Ayanna.

“This is what makes me want to go to class and I’m engaged in asking questions.”

Ayanna expanded upon what she was learning in the classroom with several transformative internships. At Vote of Experience in New Orleans, she met with people who had been in prison for decades and contributed research to a guide for facilitating peer support groups. At the Promise of Justice Initiative, also based in New Orleans, she researched the dangerous and exploitative working conditions of incarcerated people. Last summer, she interned at the Greenlining Institute in Oakland, where she wrote a memo about how climate hazards impact people in California prisons. Not only did these internships allow Ayanna to further explore her interests, they also built her professional confidence. “I learned that the moments where I wanted to give up were the times I needed to lean in harder,” says Ayanna.

At her new job, Ayanna will be a case manager, finding housing for women going through drug treatment, many of whom are formerly incarcerated. Right now, her focus is on direct service, working to transform lives on a person to person basis. In the future, she is considering doing policy work, tackling the big systemic issues that stand in the way of social justice.

“I think we need to reconstruct our society better,” says Ayanna. “A lot of people who are incarcerated are low income and they’re also people of color. Instead of investing so much money into keeping people in prison, we need to invest that into these communities.”

In loving memory of Caleb Wilson—a cherished College Track New Orleans Scholar and proud student at Southern University—we pause to reflect on the remarkable impact he left on our community and every heart he touched.

Caleb’s journey is a testament to his incredible spirit and enduring legacy. Known for his radiant energy, profound compassion, and innate leadership, Caleb embodied joy and inspiration. His unique ability to light up a room and uplift those around him will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.

As we mourn the loss of such a vibrant soul, we also celebrate the profound imprint Caleb has left on Southern University, College Track New Orleans, and beyond. His contributions were immeasurable, and his legacy of positivity and resilience will continue to inspire future generations.

In honoring Caleb’s memory, we are reminded of the importance of kindness, dedication, and the powerful impact of living a life filled with purpose and love. His story encourages us all to strive for greatness and to support each other with the same warmth and generosity he so freely gave.

Caleb’s spirit will forever be a guiding light in our community, urging us to carry forward his legacy of making the world a brighter place. Let us honor Caleb by embodying the values he lived by and continuing to spread the love and light he represented.

Caleb Wilson, your memory will forever be a source of hope and inspiration. Rest in power and peace. 

– – – 

Caleb – You were a star in the hearts of everyone so blessed to have known you. I am so grateful for the joy you brought into our space and hearts. Southern, CTNO, and New Orleans as a whole is better because of who you were. Your legacy of compassion, humor, and leadership will be enduring.  Thank you for everything, and we’ll never stop celebrating your incredible spirit and life. 

Lizzy Smith, Director of Program
College Track New Orleans

Dear Caleb Wilson,
It was an absolute pleasure being your college advisor and having our talks these past few years. You never missed a meeting with me. Always had me reminiscing on my SU days. We connected from the start and I appreciate you letting me in. Boy I’m gonna miss your bright energy…. My Lil Homey!

Jamal DuBois Simmons, College Completion Advisor
College Track New Orleans

“I have a love of research, of wanting to learn more,” she says. “I’ve always been that person — if someone has a question, and I don’t know the answer, I’m like, let’s Google it, let’s figure it out.”

When it came time to apply to college, she knew she wanted a school with a strong marine biology program. With support and guidance from College Track counselors, she chose the University of California at Santa Cruz. “I feel like without College Track, I would have struggled a lot with the college application process because as a first-generation student, you have to figure everything out for yourself,” says Jasmine.

At UCSC’s coastal campus, Jasmine was able to get plenty of hands-on experience, including a field research opportunity working with elephant seals. But midway through her college career, life events would set her on a new path. Her mother had been diagnosed with breast cancer, and Jasmine quickly changed course to learn everything she could about the disease.

“One of the ways I coped with that diagnosis — having to live with the thought that my mom is not going to be here — was researching more about cancer to try to understand not only what it was, but how our treatments for it have grown and have continued to grow.”

Friends who studied biology advised her to look into the promising field of immunology. When Jasmine found an opportunity to intern at a genomic immunology lab through a College Track partner, she was nervous that her academic resume might not be what they were looking for. But staff encouraged her to apply, and in the end, she was accepted.

“I’m very thankful for the Marson Lab and College Track for that experience and helping me get my foot in the door,” Jasmine says. Jasmine graduated from UCSC in the spring of 2023. She is planning to attend graduate school in the future and is currently looking to gain more experience in the lab. She still maintains a passion for marine biology and dreams of one day combining it with immunology. Her mother is in full remission and her biggest supporter as she navigates this new chapter of life with a renewed sense of purpose.

“If you feel like you can’t necessarily change the world,” says Jasmine, “change the world for the people closest to you.”

When it came time to apply to college, he had his eye on American University, an institution well-known for its political science program. Not only was Sebastian accepted, he received a substantial scholarship, made possible by the school’s formal partnership with College Track. “The financial help was an incredible burden lifted off of my shoulders,” he says. Sebastian dove into his classes immediately, declaring a dual major in political science and an interdisciplinary study that combines communications, legal studies, economics, and government. He also joined a friend’s nonprofit dedicated to improving civic engagement among young people. He’s worked closely with his dedicated College Track coach to manage his many commitments.

“It’s an education of how college works — getting accustomed to it, building an actual schedule and a routine that you can use every day of your life. That way, you can actually be effective academically and also job-wise.” 

Going to school in the heart of D.C. has enabled Sebastian to pursue internship opportunities that have further enriched his academic experience. Last spring, he interned with Congressman Glenn Ivy, who represents Prince George’s County as part of Maryland’s 4th District; this fall, he is interning for Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger of Maryland 2nd District. Sebastian recently attended a congressional hearing on government oversight and accountability,  which he describes as “incredibly inspiring.”

Sebastian has big plans in both the near and long term. His current goal is to intern at the White House. Eventually, he wants to run for public office, either as a state senator or a state delegate. No matter where he ends up, he knows where his priorities are.

“My goal has always been to lift up my community, to represent my community, to help my community. And I want to inspire others to do the same.”

An avid scholar-activist and innovative thinker, Xitlali shines a light wherever she goes. She’s bold, authentic, and confidently changing the world around her. A proud graduate of the University of California, Irvine, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Policy and Public Service, with a minor in Education Sciences. Her unwavering commitment to uplifting others is fueled by a passion for supporting those in their moments of strength and vulnerability.

Throughout life, Xitlali embodies the African proverb that “it takes a village.” Her village? Her family, friends, and the supportive community at College Track East Palo Alto, where her journey began. There, she didn’t just receive encouragement; she poured into the lives of her peers, advocating for others throughout her collegiate experience and beyond.

At the beginning of her educational journey, Xitlali initially faced uncertainty about her academic path. “I felt lost and doubted my capabilities,” she recalls. In those moments of confusion, she chose to lean into the idea of trusting the process. “I was like, okay, well let’s just trust the process. I maintained my persistence.”

At College Track, Xitlali discovered not just support, but a nurturing environment where mentors illuminated her potential. They introduced her to public speaking opportunities and sparked her interest in a career in the political field. “They took my hand and showed me the light,” she shares. Recognizing the critical need for community among first-generation college students, Xitlali emphasizes the importance of support. “We need that sense of stability and care from someone who’s been through the process,” she explains. College Track provided that constant presence, ensuring she never felt alone on her journey. She continued, “They [College Track] give you that hand, that support, and that feeling that they’re never gonna leave.” During the pandemic, her mentors remained steadfast, reinforcing her belief in her capabilities and igniting her desire to give back. 

During her junior year of high school, Xitlali transferred from a charter school to pursue dual enrollment, setting the stage for her two-year experience at UC Irvine. Although she initially doubted her readiness, the unwavering support from College Track helped her transition seamlessly. “They never pulled away,” she recalls, highlighting the crucial role of mentorship. “It was nice to know that there were people who believed in me, a Mexican-American little girl who once didn’t see the potential within myself.”

Throughout her academic journey, Xitlali learned that she is more than capable and will always have a community supporting her every step. From there, a desire within her to share this knowledge with others was planted. At College Track’s EPA site, she founded a club called, “Breaking Barriers,” which addressed mental health issues and provided a safe space for students to share what was on their minds, hearts, and within their daily lives.

At UC Irvine, Xitlali’s academic journey led her to research the persistence of low-income, first-generation college students. Her 80-page thesis explored the supports that help students at UC Irvine achieve their goals exploring factors like time management, faculty interactions, and access to resources. As a mentor in the Student Success Initiatives program, she worked closely with peers, underscoring the vital role of mentorship in fostering community and belonging.

Now pursuing her Master’s degree in Public Policy & Administration at California State University, Sacramento, Xitlali’s research continues to evolve. “I wanted to ensure that students knew they were not alone,” she says, emphasizing the power of community during challenging times. Her club operated under the mantra, “Hey, we’re here for you,” reinforcing the idea that everyone has a support network.

Looking ahead, Xitlali envisions herself continuing to empower her peers, work with College Track, and future students as they venture through their academic journeys. With aspirations to pursue a Ph.D. and engage in local politics, she is committed to ensuring educational resources are available for future generations. “I want to be part of the board of supervisors she states with determination.

Xitlali’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of perseverance, community, and the importance of trusting the process. “If you have a dream, what’s stopping you?” She challenges others, urging them to embrace opportunities that may scare them. “If not now, then when?”

Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of trust, mentorship, community, and individual agency. As she continues to forge her path, Xitlali remains dedicated to empowering others and fostering the connections that help students thrive. She boldly and confidently advocates for others not to say, “no,” to themselves and closes potential doors of opportunities that may be present. She states, “All your mistakes, glories, successes—these experiences make you who you are today.” Each step, even the ones taken in uncertainty, plays a vital role in our personal growth and success.

Her seven-year relationship with College Track has been pivotal in her academic and personal growth, and her involvement in her campus’ TRIO Program has prepared her to apply for a Master’s in Public Administration.

Amy’s aspiration to enter the policy field is fueled by her interactions with mentors like the vice mayor of Alhambra, CA and a political scientist who see a bright path ahead for her.

Reflecting on her experience as a TRIO mentor since junior year, Amy acknowledged the initial challenges she faced and the growth and self-awareness she gained over time. Being a first-generation, low-income student with a deep sense of empathy, she understands the importance of creating safe spaces for students to feel like “they are allowed to shine.”

Amy’s background drives her passion for advocacy and community empowerment. She channels her roots to advocate for the visibility and dignity of immigrant communities, and she believes in the importance of leadership that empathizes with and uplifts marginalized voices. When asked what kept her rooted, Amy said, “I’m rooted in so many ways. Roots aren’t perfect; they’re intertwined. I see my experiences that way. Although seemingly unrelated, they inspire me to remain open to new experiences where I can make a difference.”

Originally an Environmental Engineering major, the pivotal moment came when Nancy enrolled in her first sociology class. Exposed to topics rarely broached in her previous coursework, she found herself captivated by the open discussions and thought-provoking content. The experience ignited a spark within her, prompting a shift in focus towards sociology.

Nancy embraced the challenge of switching majors, determined to carve out her own path in an effort to fully explore her interests. Reflecting on her journey, she remarks on the tremendous personal growth she experienced, discovering leadership skills and a sense of purpose she never anticipated. She proudly stated, “I saw so much new growth in me in my first year and I’m still growing in a sense of leadership and other skills that I didn’t like except that I was gonna do in high school.”

In the fall of 2023, Nancy made another significant leap, venturing into the realm of research. Fascinated by the intersection of sociology, communications, and business, Nancy embarked on a mission to explore the legal and ethical implications surrounding family content creators. Her focus on digital content creation and child welfare captures the reality of the permanence of online information and its potential impact on vulnerable individuals. Focusing solely on the law and policy side of this issue, Nancy’s research intertwines information from federal, state, and local legislation. 

Despite initial hardships and potential uncertainties, Nancy finds the research process difficult but extremely rewarding. She envisions her work contributing to a broader conversation on digital safety and hopes to see it integrated into academic curricula, reflecting the evolving landscape of online media and this budding topic within our society.

Beyond academia, Nancy harbors aspirations of attending law school, driven by a passion for advocating for systemic change within the criminal justice system. Her multifaceted interests extend beyond her studies, as she actively engages in campus organizations and leadership roles, fostering a sense of community and purpose.

This year, Nancy will showcase her research during her college’s annual Research Week. Reminiscing on her own path, she reflects on the transformative journey that brought her here. Her story serves as a testament to the power of embracing uncertainty, stepping outside one’s comfort zone, and following passions, wherever they may lead. 

In sharing her experiences, Nancy offers advice to those navigating their own paths of self-discovery. She encourages others not to be afraid to get lost. Explore, try new things, and don’t worry about the outcome, she urges. “Being ‘lost’ can be fun because you get to find out what you like and what you do not like. She explained with a smile, “when you’re lost… you’re open minded to everything. You’re not committed to anything. And if you don’t like something, it’s not the end of the world. That’s okay. Everyone that’s been lost, they’re fine. You’re going to be okay. You’re going to find what you want to do.” 

As a keen consumer, Jackie couldn’t help but question the motivations behind the choices people make. Considering herself her own ‘lab rat’ in her own experiment of self-discovery, she analyzed the subtle messages conveyed through store layouts, designs, and the strategic placement of models. “Why this specific wig?” she wondered, and “what’s the story behind the positioning of these models?” The world of marketing and consulting became her canvas for exploration.

Jackie’s curiosity evolved into a deep dive into marketing strategies, finance, consumer behavior, and the symbiotic relationship between buyers and sellers. In her quest for understanding, she realized that her newfound interests all fell under the vast umbrella of business. Now, standing at the intersection of financing, numbers, and the intricate connections between business and marketing, Jackie finds herself in a space where everything seamlessly bridges together. As a junior economics major at Sacramento State University, she is taking classes like Quantitative Analysis, where she and her classmates are tasked with a final project that involves preparing coded scripts. At the end of this class, Jackie and her classmates will present their final project to their economics department chairs for evaluation. 

More than halfway done with her college experience, she is envisioning her future. When asked about where she sees herself in five years, she confidently stated with a smile, “I personally see myself working in the beauty, sports, or finance industry. Personally, for me, I see myself in spaces where I can act as a voice for people. I want to be in spaces where people who don’t look like me aren’t able to make the decisions for people that do look like me.” She is also passionate about studying the ongoing economic climate of her home, San Francisco. Her passions for herself, the world, and her community deeply resonate with her. Reflecting on her path so far, Jackie’s advice for others is “do not doubt who you are and what your core value is.” 

For Jackie, the world of business is not just about transactions and profit margins. It is a captivating journey of unraveling the threads that weave together the fabric of consumerism, marketing, and the intricate dance between companies and their audience. As she immerses herself in this field, Jackie realizes that her fascination with window shop displays has blossomed into a profound appreciation for the multifaceted world of business.