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
Welcome Zoe & Kevin
We are excited to welcome Kevin Torres and Zoe Benink as our newest Achievement Coaches! Kevin will be supporting 11th graders and Zoe will be working with 9th graders to complete homework, learn soft skills, and prepare for college. Kevin (Kev) recently moved from NYC, where he grew up in Queens, NY, experiencing a blend […]
CEO of The Year
Congratulations to our CEO, Tamara Y. Craver, for being named a 2024 CEO of the Year by the San Diego Business Journal! This is Tamara’s second CEO of the Year award in three years.
What is a First-Generation College Student? Am I One?
Applying to college means learning dozens of new vocabulary words and phrases. From syllabi to credit hours, it’s easy to get lost amidst the flurry of new terminology. Among these terms, you might come across “first-generation college student.” But what exactly does that mean, and how do you know if it applies to you? Let’s […]
Top Tips for First-Generation College Students
Starting college can be a real challenge, especially for first-generation students who may face unique hurdles and uncertainties. Unlike their peers who come from families with prior experience navigating the higher education system, first-generation students often lack the guidance and support networks that others may take for granted. From navigating the college application process to […]