Have you ever thought about how your life might have gone differently? Is there one pivotal moment in your life that changed everything for you? For Reality Changers graduate Michelle, it was the day she learned that she had been accepted into the program.

“Honestly, if it weren’t for that phone call, if it weren’t for getting into Reality Changers, there are so many opportunities that I wouldn’t have had. I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Michelle joined Reality Changers in 2016 and graduated from Hoover High School in 2020.

Throughout high school, Michelle had an interest in medicine and biology. She joined the Health Academy and took biomedical classes at Hoover. She also participated in community internships at health facilities and even got to do rotations in a hospital.

“I really enjoyed the hospital. I liked how fast-paced it was. You’re always on your feet. You’re always going back and forth between patients. I really enjoyed that.”

Ashly continues to make a difference, hoping to use her experiences in her next venture to highlight underrepresented voices in media and film. She says, “I’m proud of reaching goals and working for the American and Mexican embassy. I’m proud that I have learned so much and gathered so many connections, met so many people, and heard about their experiences.”

Now, she is working on securing a job in Hollywood doing Global Publicity for heavy hitting film agencies like HBO, Paramount, and Universal. In thinking about her impact and the next generation she says, “It’s so cool and inspiring to see young people reaching for their dreams and achieving even more than we were able to achieve. They are taking the tools they have and pushing themselves forward.”

As Analuz enters into her new life as a San Diego State Aztec Warrior, she feels “honored” to be a part of the Reality Changers legacy.

“Reality Changers’ work within the community is very important. There are so many kids out there who could use the help of Reality Changers to become first generation college students. Shoutout to my tutors, Achievement Coach, and College Apps Academy Instructor for being the best and providing such wonderful support.”

“Reality Changers is a place that provides students with a safe environment to grow and learn. From the tutoring sessions to college prep to speech competitions to volunteering opportunities to each other’s presence, Reality Changers really covers it all to prepare students for college and beyond.”

After high school, Linh attended UC San Diego and graduated in 2020 with a B.S. in Public Health and a Minor in Business. She says that this is one of her proudest accomplishments.