• 2011 High Hopes for the Future Scholarship recipient
• University of California, Berkeley

Becoming a mom at age 16 is the hardest thing that I have ever done, but that experience has also given me the motivation, strength and confidence to continue my goals to become someone helpful in society not just for myself and my community, but also for my son Alonzo. Having less time for being a normal teenager and school work, forced me to focus on what was really important. I chose to focus my limited time and energy on school and keeping my grades up. I made this decision because I knew that it was what I had to do to give Alonzo and myself a good future. At the same time, I did not want to rely on my parents for getting Alonzo the things he needed. Looking back at my experiences at Berkeley High and my accomplishments, I am proud of everything I’ve managed to do. I know that I have grown stronger from all the things I  have faced and will take all the strength I have with me to every place I go.

“Leticia is very energetic, responsible, and hard working. She is able to maneuver through challenges with a positive outlook and perseverance. Leticia will excel in meeting the challenges and demands of college.”

Teacher, Berkeley High School