Students from Jones Futures Academy and Milby High School recently had the opportunity to learn more about pursuing their higher-education options and to start thinking about looking into options beyond their bachelor’s degree studies.
In an event hosted by Prospanica Houston (formerly known as the National Society of Hispanics MBAs) and with volunteers from the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA), students were encouraged to explore the opportunities they can pursue after graduating high school, including the benefits of a master’s degree.
Accomplished community leaders from diverse socioeconomic, ethnic, racial, and professional backgrounds shared how they got to where they are today. They also answered questions regarding college and university life, seeking non-paid and paid internships, networking, paying for college, the importance of community service, the importance of developing soft skills such as punctuality, preparation for interviews and meetings, appropriate dress, and other habits of highly successful individuals.
“The conversation was really helpful” said Francisco Martinez, student at Jones Futures Academy student. “I see them being successful and they have a similar background to mine, so that is very inspiring.”
Victor Mondragon, one of the volunteer mentors for the event, stressed to students that there are many people just like them that at some point wonder if they will make it to college, and they have.
“My dad worked really hard to give me and my sisters a chance to go to college,” Mondragon said. “I feel responsible to make sure that futures generation have that same sense of urgency that my dad gave me.”
This is the third year that Prospanica has teamed up with HISD to raise awareness on the many options students can pursue in college and beyond.
“We believe that now is the time for these students to start thinking about their next steps in their education and future careers,” said Anna Salinas, Executive Vice-President of Prospanica Houston Chapter.
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