ES 
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: CARMELINA HERRERA
The Reality Changers team has Selected Carmelina Herrera as our Fourth 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 Developement Manager Carmelina Herrera. What college(s) did you attend?San Diego State University; BA in International […]
Meet the Posada-Lizaolas: A Legacy of Education
Erick Posada, father of two Reality Changers students, has dedicated his life to education. He and his wife Adriana were both born and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, each the first in their large families to earn a college degree. For them, education wasn’t just a milestone—it was a doorway to possibility, opened only through sacrifice […]
Meet Erik
For Erik, the path to his dream career didn’t follow a straight line. From taking a break after high school to earning his college degree and working at NBC 7 San Diego, Erik’s journey is a story of patience, purpose, and perseverance. Discovering His Direction Growing up in San Diego, Erik was always drawn to […]
Internships & Side Hustles: Building a Career as a First-Gen Student
Internships & Side Hustles: How to Build a Career Early Getting an early start on your career can change everything, especially if you’re the first in your family to go to college. Internships and side hustles for students can help you earn money, gain real-world experience, and figure out what kind of work inspires you. […]