Eric Chavez

The story that comes to mind when I think of SDSU EOP happened during my very first day of the Transfer Bridge program. I remember checking in and picking up my folder and I was also given a SDSU catalog with a sticker that read CAQ-FOR and the name Cynthia Torres. I met my counselor, Cynthia Torres, a tall woman with curly hair, a firm handshake and a kind smile. At the time, I had no clue that Cynthia would be my number one advocate, resource, and friend at SDSU. I explained to her that I was having a few setbacks with acceptance to other programs on campus. She did not hesitate and immediately took me under her wing. She introduced me to other EOP staff like Miriam Castañon, Shareka White, Simone Hidds, and Dr. Henry Villegas. This is where I learned the true importance of advocacy and social capital.

Today, I am proud to say with the help and support of Cynthia Torres and other EOP staff I was accepted into the program, which is one of, if not the best thing that has ever happened in my life. Moreover, my relationship with Cynthia allowed me to forge strong relationships with my EOP family including staff and students. I see Cynthia in the EOP office regularly and make it a point to thank her for all that she has done and continues to do for the EOP students here at San Diego State University and she always replies with “no problem dude, we are family”.

I am very proud to say that I have made the Dean’s list during my first two semesters at SDSU, which I know would have been a lot more difficult without the support and guidance of my EOP family. The EOP program has given me a family that supports and harnesses my dreams. Don’t let your past define you, destroy you, or defeat you. Let it strengthen you.