Terra was inspired to pursue a BS in Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Ecology by her grandfather who often took her fishing and helped her understand the critical importance of water in the desert ecosystem. She is conducting field research as part of her degree program and plans to graduate in December 2024. Terra hopes to pursue a PhD in Fisheries Conservation or Watershed Science.

Madison is majoring in information computer technology. She feels fortunate to have landed a student job that allows her to work on projects related to her major. However, student employees may only work 20 hours per week, and half-time pay makes it difficult to cover living expenses for herself and her 9-year-old daughter. Madison says the Live Your Dream Award “will have a positive im- pact on my role as a mother, student, and worker.... It will reduce the constant stress and anxiety, allowing me to focus on these roles without having to always worry about making ends meet and properly providing for my daughter.”

Star is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in psychology and wants to work with children with behavioral problems. Her dream is to become a psychiatrist to help children of all ages. Motivated every day by her daughter and encouraged by her family, Estrella will graduate in December 2024.

Taribea has always dreamed of a career in medicine. A Navy veteran, she earned an associate degree as a medical assistant during her 8-year military commitment. She is now earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing and hopes to eventually become a nurse practitioner. She is determined to succeed for herself and to teach her two teenage daughters “the importance of education, following your dreams and being a good person.”

Ericka is a first-generation college student whose dream is to become a licensed clinical social worker. She is enrolled in a BSW Honors Program that allows her to pursue an MSW and BSW at the same time. It’s important to her to be a role model for her three children and to give back to her community. Ericka’s long- term goal is to work to implement policy leading to social justice and to advocate for vulnerable populations.

Eloisa is majoring in early childhood education to prepare for a career as an elementary school teacher. The single mom has been raising two daughters, 11 and 15, working full time, and paying full tuition after her financial aid eligibility ran out. She is determined to show her daughters that through hard work and dedication her dream can be realized. She says, “This [award] will be one great stress off my shoulders to be able to achieve my dreams.”

Anahi began pursuing a horticulture degree in 2023 with the goal of teaching adults and children around the world to sustainably grow their own food. She works full-time to support herself and her mother who requires special care following a serious health crisis.

Cinthia is studying to become a teacher to better support her two children. Having worked as a school secretary for 13 years, teaching was a natural choice. She had especially loved her work at an elementary school, interacting with the children and helping them when she could. “I want to be the best teacher I can be,” she says, “and this award will help tremendously with getting my education.” She plans to graduate in May 2026.

Diana is a third-year nursing student with a young daughter to support. When she earns her BSN in May 2025, she plans to obtain enough experience to apply to a nurse practitioner program with an emphasis in neonatal care. She says, “I can feel proud that even though nursing school was not handed to me, I earned this degree and did everything in my power to finish.”

Sandra is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in human development and family sciences. She currently provides basic adult and youth nutrition education in Doña Ana County. She feels her studies will help further her education for the betterment of herself and her community. She says her biggest struggle is feeding her daughter, and that this award will help her overcome that obstacle.