Graduate Testimonial: Gaby A.

Below is a brief excerpt from Gaby Amezcua speech from the 9th annual ACCESS Academies Scholarship Dinner.

“I am Mexican / American, a proud daughter of two immigrant parents. Who came to the United States to provide a better future for themselves and their family. I know firsthand how hard my parents worked to get where they are now and the sacrifices they made like working two to three jobs in order for me to go to a private high school. 

I attended Saint Cecilia School and Parish. Not only did Saint Cecilia accept my family with open arms, the community became part of our family. They have amazing programs that help students with studying, extracurricular like robotics and mosaics, folkloric dancing. As well as having resources like helping to fill out FAFSA, educating families about the importance of college saving, and helping the students with study halls throughout high school and providing work study.

A majority of these students that are part of Access Academy are first-generation students whether that be high school or college. I remember being in these kids shoes. I was in this very same room 6 years ago, hoping that I would be able to attend the high school of my dreams. I’ve worked this event for the last five years and now I am here given the honor to speak tonight.

Being a first-generation student myself, I know the struggles that many of these kids face. Having to learn as you go and then having to explain it your family, even when you don’t think you fully understand it yet. Feeling like you don’t fit in, worried about the financial aspect when it comes to applying to the high school of your choice. Wondering if you’re even good enough to attend the school, and realizing that you’re going to need help. You can’t do this by yourself. Access Academies has academy directors that help students know that they have a storing support system backing them up. That they are not alone. People like Mrs. Klosterman, who helps, works during school and out of school. Worrying about us as if we were her own children. Wanting nothing but the best for us.

There will be obstacles and challenges. I remember my eighth-grade year a family member telling me that I would most likely become nothing. I would just be wasting my time and money going to private school. I would be another number on the list. That I would most likely drop out of school and start a family as a young mom. Even in high school having a teacher telling me I was not smart enough to attend the college of my dreams.

I was accepted to Notre Dame High school and graduated with a 3.5 G.P.A. I was accepted to all 8 colleges I applied to, getting the best financial aid packets in my entire eighth-grade class. I’m now attending Webster University studying Pre-Dentistry and Spanish on a full scholarship. Although I just finished my first year of college I am considered a junior with all of the extra credits I’ve taken. I’ll be applying to Dentistry School with a specialization of Orthodontist, next summer at UMKC. I’ve proved these people wrong and I will continue to prove people wrong by breaking these stereotypes and barriers that these kids can walk the same path as I and many others have.”