Growing up, I watched my family work hard in physical labor jobs without earning what they deserved. My dad worked in construction, my uncles took whatever jobs they could find, and my mom, a social worker without a degree, was paid less than her colleagues. From a young age, I knew I wanted something different—a career where my hard work would be rewarded. By the age of seven, I’d decided I was going to college, though I had no idea how to make that dream happen.
Everything changed during a family vacation to Corpus Christi, Texas. I saw a building with “Zachary Construction” written across it, and it stuck with me. It felt like a personal sign. From that moment, I was determined to go to college near that building—even though I wasn’t sure if there was a school nearby. That name and place stayed in my mind for years.
Fast forward to high school—College Forward, now College Possible Texas, visited and offered help to students applying to college. I immediately signed up. With the support of my coach, Jessi, I learned how to navigate the application process and eventually got accepted to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. When I arrived on campus for the first time, I couldn’t believe my eyes—the Zachary Construction building that had inspired my college dream was right there, on the very campus I would be attending. And not just near it, in it. That exact building became one where I took classes! My childhood vision had come true in the most literal way, and it gave my college experience a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
After graduation, I faced some challenges finding a job. Then I got an email offering me the chance to become an AmeriCorps coach and guide students just like I had been helped. I immediately accepted. The twist? They assigned me to coach at my alma mater’s rival high school, Hays High School. As a Lehman alum, it felt like I was entering enemy territory! Despite the deep-seated rivalry I had come to know growing up, the staff at Hays welcomed me warmly. I quickly started building connections with students and realized that helping them reach their goals was what really mattered.
After three fulfilling terms, College Forward transitioned into College Possible Texas, and I became a lead college access coach. It was incredibly rewarding to watch students achieve their dreams and start college. Still, I wasn’t quite ready to leave the work behind. When an opening came up for a full-time position as an advising specialist, I knew I had to apply. Now, I support students virtually, continuing to help them in the same ways I was once helped. I guide them through their college journeys, and now I mentor new coaches as well.
My journey has come full circle—from a kid inspired by a random construction sign to attending college in that exact building, and now helping others find their own paths. It’s been an incredible ride, and I’m grateful to continue this work with an amazing team by my side.
Zack Gutierrez
Advising specialist on the virtual access team
