Student Success Stories

Click on the photo to see a video of Billy Quintana.

Billy Quintana, filmed on the evening of his performance with the Taos High School El Tigre Mariachi Band, talks about getting accepted at the college of his choice and being offered close to a full scholarship. He is currently attending Colorado College and expects to graduate in 2007.

Vanessa Ortiz, now a junior at Notre Dame University, realized early that she wanted to go to college. Dreaming big, she began her application process at College Summit. When Bridges learned of an opportunity for someone to go to Notre Dame, she jumped at the chance. As a freshman, she was one of a few selected to participate in a seminar with the college president. Because of her success, Bridges expects to have a steady stream of students going to Notre Dame.

Camille Vasquez, former Administrative Assistant at the Bridges Project, is currently experiencing great success at New Mexico State University.

Stephanie Mondragon, working mother and College Summit alumna, works at Holy Cross Hospital while attending a nursing program at Northern Community College in Española.

Carmen Perez
Carmen Bella Perez and sons, Miguel and Ramon.
Carmen is raising her four children single-handedly. Founder and Executive Director Pam Shepherd says, "I'm very fond of Carmen. She's really smart, and I'm not surprised that her GPA was 3.8 out 4.0 for the semester." When asked whether Bridges had made a difference in her life, Carmen says, "Yes, Pam helped me with all the paperwork. I thought it would be harder to get into school than it was. It was a breeze." Carmen, who is completing her basic courses at the University of New Mexico in Taos, plans to transfer to Northern New Mexico Community College in Española in order to complete her degree and become a Radiographer. Federal Pell Grants have so far covered her schooling and she may qualify for future assistance through the New Mexico Health Professions Loan and Service Program.

Esther Armijo is raising her four sons and daughter single-handedly. Returning to college has changed things in her family. Now her son James has dinner ready when she gets home from driving the school bus, her second job, and updates her on everything that needs to be done, like helping his brother with his science project. While her children have been supportive, Esther says other family members have not understood why she wants to return to school since she already has a good job as Volunteer Coordinator at the Community Against Violence or why she would be willing to leave her children at home. "You just have to keep on the positive side," she says. Her son James, age 16, is already earning college credits in woodworking although he is still in high school. "We didn't even think about college," says Esther, "when we were finishing high school." Esther is a student at the University of New Mexico in Taos and by the end of this semester will have successfully completed 61 credits hours. She's happy with her progress. When asked if Bridges helped her, she said, "Yes, yes! I don't know if Pam spends as much time with everyone as she does with me, but she spent a lot with me giving me support and encouragement. Now I feel confident about applying for scholarships."

Jolene Schlosser, who recently completed her GED, is studying computer animation at the Albuquerque Technical Vocational Institute. She is also working for the Student Activities office, providing tours to potential students. The Bridges Project was thrilled to have Jolene as their tour guide during a recent visit to TVI!

Lucas Lopez is studying engineering at New Mexico State University.

Amanda Bissell received a bachelor's degree in geology and environmental studies and graduated with distinction from Colorado College in Spring 2004.

Jason Romero is studying engineering at New Mexico State University.

Carla Martinez was added as a College Summit participant to fill a last-minute vacancy. She had dropped out of Taos High School, determined never to return. After College Summit she completed her GED with plans to attend college.

Benito Quintana is a junior at UNM and studying computer engineering.

Angela Gonzales is a junior at UNM working on a bachelor's degree in early childhood education and a certificate in performing arts. She has continued to pursue flamenco dance.