Linjie is a senior at Madison High School. She was recently admitted to University of California – Irvine, and plans on attending in the fall to pursue a major in Biology.

What excites you about attending UCI in the fall?

I’m excited about having the opportunity to dorm, meet new friends, explore in a new environment outside of San Diego, and just can’t wait to start a new beginning in my next four years at UC Irvine.

How has Reality Changers supported you in reaching your goals?

Reality Changers was there since Day 1 when I started to apply for college. I honestly don’t know if I would have made it this far without Reality Changers, especially when learning was all online. I was clueless and lost with no hope, thankfully my College Apps Academy Instructor was by my side and helped me through the college process. I was able to submit my University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) applications, Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), Personal Insight Questions (PIQs), scholarships, and so much more without any obstacles and I got into my reach schools because of Reality Changers!

What piece of advice do you have for younger students coming up behind you?

My advice is to start brainstorming early for PIQs if you want to apply to a UC school because I started last minute and was very overwhelmed towards the end of the deadline. I suggest doing more research on what major you are really interested in and trying new things during your free time because that might help with discovering your passion. Also when you are lost or feeling clueless, please reach out to anyone that you think might help. Don’t suffer in silence!

Is there anyone you would like to thank?

Yes, the person that I would like to shoutout is my College Apps Academy Instructor. She is such a kind, understanding, and caring person. She would always check up on me and make sure I am doing well. When I needed help she would be very patient with me and talked me through the challenge to resolve the issue with her honest opinions and helpful advice.

This year is Reality Changers’ 20th anniversary! Since 2001, more than 2,900 students have graduated from our program! How does it feel to be a part of that group?

I feel very honored to be a part of this group. Reality Changers is a program where I feel like home. Everyone here has the mindset to help out students to reach their goals and each person puts 100% of their effort into each student. I am grateful to be in this program and getting help from Reality Changers.

Why is it important for Reality Changers to keep doing this work?

It is important for Reality Changers to keep doing this work because they are the backbone for students who are applying for college. Reality Changers is so helpful when it comes to guiding students into their future. There are low income students like me who struggle, and worry about attending college along with having to pay the high costs of tuition. But because of Reality Changers, I feel relieved. Reality Changers spreads positivity to both students and the community.

Linjie’s responses have been edited for clarity.