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University Leader fosters community and supports her fellow students

Close-up Of A Person Wearing A Floral Scarf, Posing With Their Hand On Their Chin, With A Backdrop Of A Sunny Marina Full Of Boats.

Aaliya, a student at the University of St. Thomas, first got involved with College Possible as a junior at Richfield High School. Aaliya moved to Minnesota for her first year of high school; she learned about the program through a friend. As the oldest in her family and the first to go to college, she got involved with College Possible because she wanted the support and guidance. “College Possible holds great significance because it was instrumental in guiding me through the college application and preparation process,” says Aaliya. “It also provided invaluable support to my friends and family members who were part of the program. Witnessing the positive impact it had on their journeys brought me immense joy and reinforced my appreciation for the program’s mission.”

In high school, Aaliya was fortunate enough to have two College Possible coaches and vividly remembers her senior-year coach, Maya. Maya created a safe and welcoming environment where Aaliya felt comfortable sharing her thoughts and feelings about the college application process. Their relationship grew to the point where she trusted Maya enough to review her college essay, which she admits was a big step for her. “What made the experience even more special was how we connected on a personal level. We bonded over shared experiences, like coming from small towns, and we often chatted about our favorite artists and weekend plans. Those moments made me look forward to our meetings and made it easy to ask her any questions I had. Plus, having snacks during our sessions was definitely a bonus!”

Aaliya joined the inaugural cohort of University Leaders to foster a sense of community and provide support to others who, like her, once needed guidance and encouragement. Like AmeriCorps coaches, University Leaders must apply and go through an interview process. She recently helped organize a financial planning night. “It’s incredibly rewarding to give back and help others navigate their own journeys, just as I was supported along the way.”

Aaliya is studying entrepreneurship and data and is on track to graduate from the University of St. Thomas in May 2027. Her goal is to become a successful business owner in the healthcare industry, creating innovative solutions to make a meaningful impact. She is also thrilled to be studying abroad in Rome, with plans to explore and learn across Europe. This experience will not only expand her global perspective but also bring her closer to achieving her dreams.

“Without College Possible Minnesota, I would have faced significant challenges navigating the college application process and preparing for higher education. The resources, guidance, and sense of community provided by College Possible would have been difficult to replace. If this organization didn’t exist, countless students like me would lose access to invaluable mentorship and support, making the path to college and success much harder to achieve. The program fills a critical gap, empowering students to overcome barriers and realize their potential.”

What to learn more about what it’s like to be part of the University Leaders program? Check out Shuayi’s story.

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