At College Possible Omaha’s second annual Caps Off community appreciation event, College Possible student Yexalen was featured as one of the keynote speakers. Yexalen, who is currently enrolled at the University of Nebraska Omaha, shared her ambitious aspirations to support students in achieving academic success, inspired by the assistance she received from College Possible.
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen,
Thank you all for coming today to celebrate College Possible and everyone behind it. I stand before you with a profound sense of gratitude and humility as I express my deepest thanks to the remarkable organization that has changed the trajectory of my life. To the representatives, volunteers, and supporters of this incredible nonprofit, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for the monumental impact you’ve had on my journey thus far.
My name is Yexalen Jaramillo, and I am a product of College Possible’s unwavering commitment to educational equity and opportunity. As a graduate of South High School and a current student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, I stand before you as a triple major in secondary education, international studies, and business management, with a minor in English. My aspirations are fueled by a passion for empowering at-risk youth, guiding them towards academic success, and helping them navigate the complex landscape of post-secondary education.
However, my journey would have been markedly different without the steadfast support and guidance of Kari, my College Possible coach during my junior and senior years of high school. Kari’s mentorship was instrumental in securing vital scholarships, including the Susan T. Buffett Scholarship, Goodrich Scholarship, Horatio Alger Aksarben Scholarship, and the Rotary Honor Roll Scholarship. I remember counting the hopeless feelings that invaded my last semester of high school, which happened to be right when the pandemic started in March 2020. I still have flashbacks about it every spring break and never having the chance to finish out my final year of high school. Being awarded these scholarships not only alleviated the financial burden of college but also provided me with the resources to pursue my dreams without constraint.
As a single parent immigrant family from Mexico, my mom and I faced numerous challenges upon our arrival in Nebraska. Yet, through perseverance and determination, we embraced those opportunities that were laid before us, and others that we had to look for. We were, and still are, driven by a shared commitment to a brighter future. My mother’s unwavering support has been my guiding light, instilling in me the belief that no dream is too ambitious and no obstacle too daunting.
College Possible became a beacon of hope during my transition to college, dispelling fears of inadequacy and empowering me to realize my full potential. Through personalized coaching, intensive ACT preparation, and invaluable assistance with scholarship applications, College Possible equipped me with the tools and confidence to thrive in higher education. Their dedication and devotion transformed the daunting process of college into an exhilarating journey of self-discovery and growth. The commitment to holistic support extended far beyond academic guidance, encompassing crucial aspects such as financial aid counseling and college readiness workshops. Their tireless efforts not only made college accessible but also fostered a sense of community and belonging that empowered me to excel academically and personally.
I will forever admire the work of College Possible, their unwavering belief in my potential and their relentless pursuit of educational equity. Their impact transcends mere academic achievement, shaping me into a compassionate leader and advocate for change. As I continue my journey towards empowering the next generation of students, I carry with me the invaluable lessons and support bestowed upon me.
To the entire College Possible community, I extend my deepest thanks for being the catalysts of transformation in the lives of countless students, myself included. Your dedication, compassion, and belief in the power of education are the cornerstones of a brighter and more equitable future for us all.
Thank you.
