Rise of the underdog

SJP alumni chat about their challenges and success with the college application process during an alumni panel discussion with the SJP 2009 group. (Photo Credit: Brain Rokus '99).

By Valerie Briseno (Laredo, Texas)

It was all a dream to me. I couldn’t believe I actually made it into the program. Even through the first few intense days of the program, I just couldn’t fully understand why or how I got chosen.

I felt like the underdog, not to mention very intimidated. The panel discussion with the SJP alumni was what really opened my eyes up and helped me realize I got to where I am because of my hard work and dedication.

I, like some of the other alumni, come from a low-performing high school. And, even with all the interruptions at school, I’ve strived to do the best and improve my abilities as much as possible. Living in a city that practically no one has heard of and being Hispanic plays a role in shaping expectations about my future success and their lack of belief in my abilities. When others don't believe in you, it's hard to believe in yourself.

I felt like many of the panelists in that I never thought that I could get into an Ivy League school such as Princeton because I wasn’t good enough for it. I was scared of having the directors and counselors disappointed in me if I didn’t get in. It was in my mindset that, no matter how good I thought I was, I wasn’t going to get accepted into a prestigious university.

The alumni, however, helped me understand that I wasn’t the only one that felt insecure. The panel answered so many of the questions I had, and somehow, helped me become more confident. I realize, now, that if you don’t believe in yourself no one else will believe in you.

Thanks to the alumni I know I can get anywhere I want to by simply dedicating myself and being confident about myself.