Meet our 2023 Student Ambassadors!

Andrea Prieto

Andrea, a 25-year-old Venezuelan native, has always possessed a genuine love for learning and a passion for education. Growing up, Andrea’s enthusiasm for school and exploration of new subjects set the foundation for her academic journey. Currently a sophomore at Miami Dade College, she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Film, Television, and Digital Production. With an unwavering dedication to her craft, Andrea has set her sights on an exciting future in the entertainment industry. Her long-term aspirations extend beyond traditional boundaries, encompassing a wide range of creative endeavors.

 

 

 

 

Maria Rubio Arteaga

Maria, a driven and accomplished first-generation college student, is on the brink of completing her educational journey. Currently enrolled at Lander University in Greenwood, SC, Maria is pursuing a double major in psychology and Spanish, complemented by a minor in child and family studies. Through valuable internships, Maria has been immersed in the public education system, gaining firsthand insights into the challenges faced by families who lack the necessary guidance to navigate the complex system.

 

 

 

 

Krystal Ramos

Krystal Ramos, a recent high school graduate, stands poised at the beginning of an exciting academic journey. Having accomplished the remarkable feat of earning both her high school diploma and associate’s degree, Krystal is no stranger to the challenges of navigating a new educational environment. She has personally experienced the difficulties that arise when lacking the resources and guidance of parents or peers who have already embarked on similar paths. It is this firsthand understanding that fuels her desire to assist future first-generation students in overcoming these obstacles.

 

 

 

 

Vanessa Ruiz

Vanessa Ruiz, the proud owner of Nessa’s Sweet Treats, hails from Arizona, where she was born and raised amidst a large and entrepreneurial family. From an early age, Vanessa found joy in catering to her family’s tastes and impressing them with a wide variety of delicious treats and flavors. Her passion for baking and pastry arts led her to attend a career prep school during high school, where she honed her skills and cultivated a professional approach to the culinary world.

 

 

 

 

Britney Perez

Britney Perez is an ambitious and driven individual who is set to embark on an exciting academic journey at Northwestern University. With a strong passion for sociology, business, and education, Britney wants to make a meaningful impact in the lives of underprivileged students by establishing an organization dedicated to promoting positive youth development and educational empowerment.

 

 

 

 

 

Elaine Torres-Lopez

Elaine is a recent graduate of Nevada State High School, from the vibrant state of Nevada. Elaine’s academic journey will continue at Nevada State College, where she will be majoring in Biology. With a deep-rooted passion for animals and a drive to make a difference, Elaine aspires to become a veterinarian and establish their own foundation or clinic in Nevada.

 

 

 

 

 

Lilian Santos

Lilian, a determined and ambitious 20-year-old, proudly embraces her Mexican heritage as the daughter of Mexican parents. Currently a college student, she is eagerly preparing to embark on a new educational chapter at CBU, where she will be pursuing a degree in Public Relations starting in the upcoming Fall semester. Lilian’s K-12 years were marked by a diverse range of educational experiences, including homeschooling, public school, and attending a charter school. These varied environments have played a significant role in shaping her into a resourceful, open-minded individual, while offering her invaluable insights and perspectives of the world.

 

 

 

 

Valeria Campos

Valeria Campos, a resilient and determined individual, embarked on a life-changing journey when she and her family immigrated to California from El Salvador at the age of 14. Starting high school in a new country brought forth feelings of fear and nervousness, but Valeria’s tenacity allowed her to overcome these initial challenges and ultimately find safety, comfort, and success in her new environment. Supported by peers and teachers who fostered an inclusive atmosphere, Valeria discovered her passion for education and developed a strong drive to further her knowledge and skills.

 

 

 

 

Edwin Carranza

Edwin, a determined and compassionate individual, was born in El Salvador and made the life-changing move to the United States in 2012. Currently in his third year of college, he is pursuing a major in Criminal Justice at the University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio. Throughout the past year, Edwin has dedicated his time and expertise to the Ohio Hispanic Coalition, where he serves as a tutor for Latino students. This invaluable opportunity has deepened his understanding of the challenges faced by Spanish-speaking and Latino students within the U.S. education system, while highlighting the importance of supporting the academic success of his community.

 

 

 

 

Alessandra Campos

Alessandra, a determined and resilient individual, was born and raised in El Salvador before embarking on a life-changing journey to Los Angeles at the age of 11. Arriving in a new country, Alessandra faced the challenge of learning English, a hurdle she tackled head-on. Her dedication and perseverance propelled her to excel academically, culminating with the title of valedictorian at her elementary school. This early success fueled Alessandra’s drive to continually push herself in her educational journey, seeking opportunities for growth and personal development.