Evelyn Lievanos

My thoughts on the Educational Opportunity Program are filled with incredible memories, from day one when I began the Summer Bridge Academy that smoothly transitioned into my First Academic Year in Fall of 2014. I was also part of the first cohort to participate in the Sophomore Bridge Program with EOP that took place in the summer transitioning into my second year of college. You do not realize how fast the time moves until you are on your way out. For me it is Spring 2019, in case you were wondering. College is not always what you expected, and the flight to graduation is not a perfecting landing, but it sure is a learning experience.

I was a first generation student attending to college, I already did not know anything about college. EOP was the flight I needed to take in order to get to my destination. EOP gave me that support, that guidance so that we persist with our education and that’s what I would say my biggest accomplishment was continuing my education, not giving up, and believing that EOP was my ticket to success.

I am sure you are familiar with the quote that says ‘move forward and never look back’ well, I did look back and it was the most rewarding feeling. Looking back, I do not think I really realized that at the end of my flight I would be earning my college degree for myself, for my family and for my community. So my message to all future students: Take the time to acknowledge and remember where it all began. Let it be the courage that moves you forward.