Our Work
Supporting First-Generation Futures
Reality Changers serves youth who will be the first in their families to graduate from college. Our programs support students from racial, ethnic, socio-economic, and academic backgrounds that are typically underrepresented on college campuses and overlooked by institutions. In fact, before Reality Changers, many of our students may not have considered themselves "college material."
Launching Agents of Change
College degrees create new opportunities for individuals. On average, a Bachelor's degree increases a person's lifetime earnings by 84%.
College builds equity for underserved communities. Not only do our graduates bring new economic resources to their families and neighborhoods, they also and work, invest, and get involved in their communities.
Our Youth
Alvaro (‘23)
Karina (‘17)
Michael (‘10)
Our Programs
College Town
College Town is a cost-free afterschool and summer program for 8th-11th graders. The curriculum focuses on building a strong foundation of academic, personal, and community-building skills. Students receive tutoring, join field trips, participate in community service outings, and more. Programs for families help to build resiliency and prepare parents for college.
COLLEGE APPS ACADEMY
College Apps Academy provides cost-free support for high school seniors through the college application process and beyond. We help students get into the 2 and 4-year institutions that are the best fit for them, with an emphasis on maximizing financial aid options and preparing for college life.
The Alumni Network
Just getting first-generation students into college isn’t enough. Nationally, 90% of first-generation, low-income college students don’t graduate within six years. The Alumni Network helps youth get through college graduation and launch their careers.
GET INVOLVED
Volunteer
Looking to get involved with nonprofit organizations in San Diego? You can be the person that makes a difference in a young person’s life.
Visit
Come see our education center and meet students working to become first-generation college graduates.
Donate
Help youth achieve their dreams.
Blog and Media Coverage
See How Reality Changers Makes a Difference
Agent of Change: Osirus Polachart
The Reality Changers team has Selected OSIRUS POLACHART as our First quarter “Agent of Change.” This special award recognizes a staff member who shows a deep commitment to our mission and examplifies our values. Read on to learn more about Academy Instructor Osirus Polachart. Are you a first-gen college graduate? If yes, what did it […]
Meet Daniel
Daniel joined Reality Changers during 12th grade at Mission Vista High School. He had always been interested in STEM careers and felt like Reality Changers could help him get into college to realize his goals. “I remember looking at [college] applications and just being stressed, like, ‘what am I supposed to do with this?’” he […]
Meet Dessiree
For Desisree, education has always been about more than earning a degree. It has been a way to create opportunities for herself, support her family, and ultimately help others do the same. From navigating college as a first-generation student to earning a master’s degree from Harvard and pursuing a Ph.D., Dessiree’s journey is one of determination, service, and the belief that every student deserves access to higher education.
How Parents Can Support Their Student After High School Graduation
Support your student after graduation with college transition tips, emotional guidance, and ways to help them build confidence after high school.
