Sabrin graduated from Concordia University in Saint Paul, Minnesota, in 2021 after earning their B.A. in an individualized degree within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Sabrin’s previous work experience made them realize that they wanted a position that has structure and set protocols, and they were drawn to serve with College Possible.
How did you get involved with College Possible? What motivated you?
I became involved with College Possible through AmeriCorps. In the first half of 2024, I applied for numerous positions, attended many interviews, and faced my share of rejection emails. However, the opportunity to serve for a year with College Possible through AmeriCorps felt like a higher calling that I needed to answer to move forward in my journey. After graduating from university, I was in search of stability but didn’t want to commit to a traditional 9-to-5 lifestyle. As a creative, I aimed to establish supportive structures rather than suppressive ones.
During my time working in community and grassroots organizations, I experienced the benefits of operating outside of rigid hierarchical structures. While I appreciated the freedom and trust offered to me, I soon realized that the absence of concrete structures and protocols began to inhibit my progress. I recognized that I lacked the tools, knowledge, and discipline necessary to thrive in an entirely unstructured environment, and I began searching for more organization in my workplace. I understood that I needed to find a balance.
These were difficult lessons to learn. However, after my interview with College Possible Minnesota, I realized that this was a place where I could grow my skills while working within an institution that is supportive and invested in my professional development. The timing felt serendipitous, as I was ready to embrace this level of responsibility and growth.
Can you tell me about a memorable experience with a student? What were you helping them with? What did you learn from your interaction with that student?
Recently, I assisted one of my junior students in creating her Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) and completing her financial aid application to prepare for starting Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) next semester. During our mid-year check-in, she informed me that she needed to complete the financial aid application before beginning her classes. She expressed that she felt unsupported by the school counselor and was unsure how to get started.
I reassured her that I was there to help. We scheduled a time to meet the following day, and I provided her with a list of documents she would need to bring. The next morning, we got to work right away, and together we completed her financial aid application. She had been stressed about this throughout winter break, worried that she might miss her chance to enroll in PSEO.
After we finished the form, she was ecstatic and hugged me in gratitude. She is very motivated and works hard. I am thankful that I could offer crucial support at such an important moment in a student’s life.
This experience taught me that, often, we are capable of overcoming difficult tasks and achieving great things; all we need is a supportive hand to reassure us that we are on the right track.
What would be lost if College Possible didn’t exist? Why is College Possible important?
If College Possible did not exist, the world would be worse off. College Possible helps individuals from all demographics access higher education, which is essential for any society that seeks to thrive in peace and harmony. Without young adults who possess critical thinking skills, agency, and the determination to strive for a more just world, we are truly at risk. Education is currently under attack because it fosters enlightened and empowered individuals who are less likely to fall prey to the manipulative tactics used by social engineers who benefit from our fractured society.
For example, in the story I shared earlier, my presence at the high school where I am serving helped a student find assistance she couldn’t access elsewhere. The reality is that public education institutions are underfunded, and faculty and staff are often overworked and underpaid. As a result, students who need help often slip through the cracks.
I was one of those students; and I believe that if College Possible had been available at my high school, my undergraduate experience would have been entirely different. Knowing what I know now, I probably could have graduated with zero debt. It would be a shame for College Possible to no longer exist.
What are your goals or dreams for the future?
My dreams and goals for the future are that I stay aligned with my spirit and my purpose. I want to lead a life filled with love, compassion, and service. I don’t know exactly what that will look like but as long as I continue listening to my heart, that led me here.
In the meantime, I am focused on being the best coach I can be for my students and taking care of myself holistically.
Do you want to help inspire students like Sabrin does? Learn more about serving with College Possible. You could be a critical support system and coach to a student throughout their college journey.
