Jackie Espinoza

Jackie began her college journey in 2014, starting out as a pre-nursing major. However, she discovered her passion for English and changed majors to English with an emphasis in Education.

Jackie’s Message:
EOP offers me a home and family, and helped me achieve goals I never thought
possible. Growing up I did not think Chicanas wrote, so getting published in The Island
Fox was a huge accomplishment. I have many other achievements that became
possible through EOP’s support, but the publication of “Back to My Roots” is definitely
my proudest.

EOP has helped me break out of my bubble. I was a shy girl who doubted my every
move. When I got involved with EOP as a peer mentor, and as a student assistant, I
was walking on a new path. The success I have had, I can honestly say, has been
thanks to EOP. They have shown me never to be afraid of the unknown, and to always
keep walking forward.

My biggest advice for future EOP students: remember, EOP is home. Many firstgeneration
college students feel alone. We do not know what is waiting for us and we
think no one else is in our shoes. We are wrong. We are not alone. There are many
students like us, and we need to understand, that there are people that want us to
succeed. EOP staff will sit down, have a genuine conversation, present new
opportunities, and help design a promising future. To every future EOP student,
welcome home.