Marie Alonzo

EOP has always been there to help me through my journey. Not only am I attending school as a student/student assistant, I also have a teenager and an adult child that I am supporting. EOP has and is helping me get my education and supporting me with my advancements.

After becoming a young mother, I put my education aside. In 2012, I took the steps needed to start my college career and here I am at CSU, Monterey Bay about to graduate in a year. It has been a long journey, but I am very proud of myself. Especially being a first generation student as well as raising a family.

Not only has EOP given me the support through counseling, learning skills, and tutoring, but has also given me the boost that I needed in knowing that I can do this and that I can handle anything that comes my way. EOP has empowered me to become the person I knew that I could be, and has given me the tools to support me along the way.

I would advise others to take advantage of all the opportunities EOP has to offer. Attend workshops, talk to your EOP advisors and peer mentors, and make use of the tutoring hours at the computer lab. Use all of it to strengthen your academic, professional, and social life. In the end, this is what will help you gain the knowledge and skills for the world outside.