AMBASSADOR PROGRAM

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: Business Administration – Nonprofit Management

Extracurriculars:

• DECA
• Enactus
• True Heart Ministries (church)

Dream Job: Successful business owner

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: I had invasive breast cancer at a young age, it took years just to get healthy & I thought the time to get a degree had passed me by.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I love the program so I am always talking about it to others. I am actively trying to gain community and connections. I was already showing up to events, shaking hands, and doing ambassador type things so I really was just waiting for the application period to open again.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Property! That is the main thing on my bucket list right now because it will open the opportunity for me to do several other things on my list. I am currently preparing for my first property which will be my residence providing guardianship and services for youth aging out of foster care and other similar systems. I also enjoy animals and adopting the ones that are less likely to be adopted from shelters so my property would allow me space to house a few at a time.

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Biology – Pre-Dental Hygiene

Extracurriculars:

• First-Gen Roo
• Make-A-Wish
• Pre-Dental Hygiene Society

Dream Job: Dental Hygienist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: It’s truly an honor to have KC Scholars with me along the way of my undergraduate career. Having the opportunity to achieve a bachelor’s degree with a great support system is the key to success, and KC Scholars has always been there for me as well as many others. I am grateful to be a part of a program that invests in students and makes a positive impact in our community.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I was inspired to become a KC Scholars Ambassador because of the positive experiences I have had with the program. I received the support I needed and more to be successful in my first year in college. I knew I would love sharing these opportunities with others. I am very excited to represent KC Scholars and encourage more students to learn about the different opportunities it provides!

What’s one item on your bucket list: To see all Seven Wonders of the World. 

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: Business Administration. 

Extracurriculars: 

• UMKC Adult Learner Ambassador

Dream Job: My dream job would involve helping people achieve their personal greatness through education, employment, and career development. I have a passion for giving back to support adult learners and first-generation college students.

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars has given me the opportunity to accomplish a goal of being a college graduate. I had put my dream on hold for 25 years, but it proves that it is never too late to achieve your educational and career dreams.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I want to be an ambassador to give back to the program that has been life-changing for me. I hope to share my story to encourage others to pursue their goals and dreams.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Learn how to swim.

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Biology Pre-Med

Extracurriculars: 

• ALAS Vice President | Association of Latin American Students
• KC Pet Resources | Volunteer
• Happy Bottoms Baby Grace | Spanish Translator

Dream Job: Physician/Surgeon

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means being able to develop a sense of hope and being able to do new things and create new paths. Being able to feel stress-free and take in new opportunities without worry, with a community that supports me.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: Being able to give back to my community by helping others feel a sense of belonging and being able to help those that might be feeling stuck just how I felt as a first timer. Helping someone else create their own path, no matter the circumstance.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Publishing my own book!

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Biology. 

Extracurriculars: 

• Breast cancer research assistant at KU Medical Center

Dream Job: Pharmaceutical Scientist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being part of KC Scholars means I have support and people in my community rooting for my success.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: Connect with other students similar to my background and become more involved in my university. 

What’s one item on your bucket list: Hike Half Dome.

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance

Extracurriculars:

• Banking Leaders of Tomorrow
• Enactus
• First Gen Roos
• Women in Business
• Avanzando
• Professional Career Escalators
• Bloch Launchpad

Dream Job: Financial Examiner or Accountant

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars to me means having the chance to pursue my academic and career goals with the support of a community that believes in my success every step of the way. It also means being surrounded by people who motivate me to grow, challenge myself, and stay committed to the future I’m working toward. KC Scholars represents opportunity, encouragement, and a reminder that I’m not walking this journey alone.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: KC Scholars has a very strong impact on many scholar students, so I wanted to be a part of that impact on campus by becoming an ambassador. Stepping into this role also gives me the chance to grow as a leader by supporting other students, sharing resources, and helping create the same positive experience that KC Scholars has given me.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Running a marathon.

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: Biology & Chemistry

Extracurriculars: 

• Pathfinder at Children’s Mercy Hospital

Dream Job: Anesthesiologist Assistant

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means having opportunities that have helped make my college journey possible. As a first-generation student from an immigrant family, the support, resources, and community have encouraged me to pursue my goals with confidence. KC Scholars has shown me that my education can create opportunities not only for myself, but also for my family and the communities I hope to serve in the future.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I wanted to become an ambassador because KC Scholars has played such a big role in my college journey, and I wanted the chance to give back. I’ve really enjoyed connecting with students, sharing my experiences, and helping others learn about opportunities that can make a difference in their education and future goals.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Travel to at least 10 other countries.

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Accounting

Extracurriculars: 

• Lockton Learner Program
• Women in Business
• Tri-Alpha
• Bloch Launchpad
• BizTown Ambassador
• KC Pet Project Volunteer
• Cat Foster

Dream Job: Forensic Accountant

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: KC Scholars isn’t just a program, it is a faith in young, aspiring professionals like myself. As a first-generation college student and Mexican American, this program has invested in my potential when my path was not always clear. Being a part of KC Scholars means having a community that makes you feel deserving, capable, and supported.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: Being a first-generation college student navigating college without an exact roadmap inspired me to give back to the program that believed in me. KC Scholars has invested in my potential, which has inspired me to invest back and be a source of motivation for other Scholars. I want to convey that success is possible even when your path is uncertain, and help others who have once felt invisible continue to persevere.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Traveling outside of the country to a tropical destination, somewhere I can experience a new culture, beautiful scenery, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Health Sciences/Dental Hygiene

Extracurriculars:

• Roo pantry
• Pre-dental Hygiene Society
• Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA)
• Welcome Leader
• Dental Hygiene Shadowing

Dream Job: Dental Hygienist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: To me, being a part of KC Scholars means being interlinked with a community that believes in my goals, my education, and my future. I’m constantly reminded that I’m not pursuing success alone, and that motivates me to keep growing while helping other students feel supported as well.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I was inspired to become a KC Scholars Ambassador because KC Scholars has created opportunities that make higher education more accessible and feel more achievable for students like me. I want to be a part of that mission by encouraging other students to take advantage of the resources readily available to them and helping them feel supported throughout their educational journey.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Studying Abroad

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Elementary Education.

Extracurriculars: Actively serving in the Army reserves.
I am a student leader with Agape Pamoja, a nonprofit organization focused on community service and outreach.

Dream Job: I have dreamed of pursuing many careers , at the top of that list is becoming a principal. I want to be someone who helps children succeed and create a safe, supportive environment where they can grow their knowledge. My goal is to ensure every child feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. For now, I will begin this journey as an elementary teacher, where I can have a positive impact on their lives from the very start of their educational journey.

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being part of KC Scholars means a lot to me because they helped make my education possible when I didn’t know how I would afford college. Through their support, I gained financial freedom and a strong community of friends who continue to encourage and inspire me.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I wanted to challenge myself while also helping others in our community access the opportunities and support that KC Scholars provides.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Going on a missionary trip to Zimbabwe, although I may not know exactly how it will happen, I trust that god will make a way and guide me towards that opportunity.

Year in School: Freshman

Program of Study: Psychology/Criminal Justice

Extracurriculars:

• NAMI
• CASA
• PIVOT
• MOCSA
• LitMovement

Dream Job: Psychologist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means having a community that believes in my potential and is investing in my future, not just paying my tuition. It represents access, support, and stability as a low- to modest-income older adult student at UMKC, so I can focus on my psychology studies and use my education to advocate for mental health and stronger families in the Kansas City community.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I was inspired to become an ambassador because KC Scholars changed what I believed was possible for me as an older adult student, and I wanted to be that same source of hope for others. Being an ambassador lets me share my story, encourage first-generation and nontraditional students, and help more people in Kansas City see college as within their reach.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Studying abroad.

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Accounting

Extracurriculars:

• Beta Alpha Psi

Dream Job: Public Accountant

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a KC Scholars means having the chance to reach my fullest potential and having people who believe in me.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: What inspired me to become an ambassador was wanting the chance to get out of my comfort zone and help others who need it. I want to share my journey so far and help relieve others who were in my shoes.

What’s one item on your bucket list: A bucket list item I am eager to check off is going to Europe and traveling to as many countries as possible. 

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: Molecular Biology Pre-Med track

Extracurriculars:

• Rockhurst University Student Body Vice-President
• SMART STEM Coach
• Hawk Scholars Leader
• JayDoc Front Desk Volunteer
• RUACH youth group

Dream Job: Physician

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Giving back to a community that’s invested so much in me.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador:
I wanted to be around like-minded people who are grateful for Great Jobs KC’s impact, like myself.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Travel around the world!

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Accelerated Exercise Science

Extracurriculars:

• Hawks Scholars Leader
• Tutor
• Lead Peer Coach -Social Lead
• Honors Program Vice President
• Commuter Club Treasurer

Dream Job: Traveling Physical Therapist for a professional sports team (preferably men’s basketball)

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means that I am able to educate the younger generation while still being able to lean on my KC Scholars mentors for anything I need.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I want to help other students who may come from a similar background to mine fit in on campus. I believe being a KC Scholar Ambassador has given me that privilege.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Travel internationally.

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: Majors: English and Spanish Minor: Marketing

Extracurriculars:

• Writing tutor
• President of Sigma Delta Pi
• Media manager of the English club
• Rockhurst honors program
  

Dream Job: Editor in a publishing house

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being part of KC Scholars means having the opportunity and chance to become something great. Where the support system I have continues to show up and show out, allowing me to continue this journey of completing my degree and start the first few steps of my future. I am an also able to carry the honor that within my community I was able to be chosen to be a part of something that allows others to look forward to their future than fear it.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: What inspired me to become an ambassador was that the community I am able to be part of is now allowing me to be able to give. Where I can see fellow Scholars and know that they too share something with me, and I’m helping to give that opportunity for connection.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Parasailing!

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Exercise Science

Extracurriculars:

• Soccer

Dream Job: Physical Therapist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: It means a lot, because i get to represent a program that helped me and still helping me in my journey.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I was referred to by my peers. I also would love to help upcoming freshman.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Graduate.

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Exercise Science.

Extracurriculars:

• First-Generation
• Peer Coach

Dream Job: Athletic Trainer

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: It means being able to help others, I was a person who always wants to know more about everything, and being able to be a person who others can come would be something so rewarding.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I became friends with two ambassadors from Rockhurst, and they were so nice, sweet, and nurturing to help me out, so they inspired me to want to help others in their journey at Rockhurst.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Meet a soccer player!

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: Organismal Biology

Extracurriculars:

• Peer Coach

Dream Job: Veterinarian

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: It means knowing I have someone rooting for me no matter what!

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: The ambassadors at my university worked extremely hard to create a welcoming and supportive community, and I wanted to give that back to other KC Scholars!

What’s one item on your bucket list: Being accepted into vet school!

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Biochemistry Major with a minor in Business, honors, and pre-med track.

Extracurriculars:

• Pre-med Society
• KUMed Sim
• KUMed Life
• KU MedSpanish
• American Medical Women’s Association

Dream Job: Pediatrician

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means having the opportunity to pursue my education with support, guidance, and a strong community behind me. It represents a chance to grow academically and personally while helping one another learn, succeed, and grow together throughout the journey toward our future goals.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I was inspired to become an ambassador because I enjoy supporting and connecting with other students who are working toward their goals. The opportunity to share my experiences, spread cultural awareness, and help build a positive community where everyone can encourage and help each other grow inspired me to apply for this role.

What’s one item on your bucket list: One item I am eager to check off is to reunite my family together in Mexico. Being able to spend time with loved ones, reconnect with my roots, and create meaningful memories together would be a very special and important experience for me and my family.

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Biology: Pre-PA track

Extracurriculars:

• Children’s Mercy Volunteer
• Children’s Mercy Emergency Room Tech
• Children’s Mercy Youth Research Advisory Board Member
• Alpha Delta Pi Sorority
• KU American Medical Women’s Association
• KU Pre-PA Club

Dream Job: Pediatric Physician Assistant

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means having a community that believes in my potential and supports my educational journey.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: As a first-generation college student, I’ve learned how important it is to have a strong support system. I became an ambassador to give back, inspire other students, and show them that their goals are achievable.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Volunteer in Africa!

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences.

Extracurriculars:

• President for the Vietnamese Student Association at KU
• Youth Leader for the Vietnamese Eucharistic Youth Movement
• Teacher’s Assistant at the Vietnamese Church in Kansas City, Missouri.
• I am involved in the National Speech Student Speech Language Hearing Association
• Asian American Student Association at KU as a member.

Dream Job: Speech Language Pathologist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means the ability to pursue a higher education without having to worry about the financial burden. It also means being able to network and make connections with a wide range of people within the community, as well as getting closer to accomplishing my future career goals and life aspirations.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I had such a great time as a KCS ambassador for the 2025-26 school year, and I wanted to continue my time again! The KC Scholars Program has provided me with so much as a student, and I’ve been able to build many great connections. I want other KC Scholars students at KU to know and feel this same support that I’ve received!

What’s one item on your bucket list: Make lots of money and travel the world!

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Chemical Engineering

Extracurriculars:

• Choir
• The KU Student Experience Committee
• The American Institute of Chemical Engineers
• The Society of Women Engineers

Dream Job: I am still discovering the details of what my dream job would consist of. Currently, my dream job is a role involved with plant design and consulting.

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means being supported by a community aiming to help you achieve your academic goals and be invested in your collegiate journey!

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I was inspired to become an ambassador after seeing the wonderful impact that the ambassadors had on the KC Scholars community at the KC Scholars campus events. The ambassadors excitedly welcomed, uplifted, and created a positive environment for the KC Scholars students.

What’s one item on your bucket list: One item on my bucket list is to learn multiple languages!

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Human Biology

Extracurriculars:

• Social Media work at KU Union
• Face Painting for SA Entertainment

Dream Job: Anesthesiologist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means having the opportunity to pursue my education with financial support and a community that believes in my potential. As a first-generation college student, KC Scholars has helped make my goals feel more achievable and has motivated me to give back to others. 

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I wanted to become an ambassador because I know how valuable KC Scholars can be for students who may not realize these opportunities exist. I hope to share my experience, encourage others to apply, and help students feel confident about their future education goals.

What’s one item on your bucket list: One item on my bucket list is to travel internationally and experience different cultures around the world. I would love the opportunity to learn from new people and broaden my perspective through travel.

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Political Science and Law and Society

Extracurriculars: 

• Volunteer work with the City of Kansas City.

Dream Job: Becoming a Lawyer that will be able to come home and help people in my community!

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: To me, KC Scholars represents opportunities for first- generation kids like myself. KC Scholars offers people from my community the chance to fulfill their dreams.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I wanted to become more involved with the program after everything it has done for me! I also wanted to have the opportunity to help other first-generation college students with things that I also struggled with when I first got to college.

What’s one item on your bucket list: I want to travel around the world with my friends and family!

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: Chemical Engineering

Extracurriculars:

• AICHE member
• Volunteer with the Giving Grove

Dream Job: Business owner of a successful hair care line that I designed.

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: KC Scholars means opportunity to me. It’s an organization that I hold dear to my heart because it has opened so many doors I didn’t know existed.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I want to make a difference in how each ambassador can communicate with each other. Taking initiative in finding which communication style works for this mission is the reason why I became an ambassador.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Ride in a hot air balloon. 

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Accounting and Pre-Law 

Extracurriculars:

• Cross Lines
• Dance in the Park

Dream Job: An accountant with one of the Big 4 Accounting Firms.

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: To me being part of KC Scholars means being part of a community and team. A team that helps other students, provides support, and helps others in accomplishing their goals.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: What inspired me to become an ambassador was the people. I have attended the KC Scholars events and I enjoyed talking to the other students. It was a big step out of my comfort zone but I am excited to meet new people.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Skydiving

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Major: Geology Minor: Spanish

Extracurriculars:

• Volunteer at the Santa Fe Waystation food pantry
• Member of the Marching Jayhawks at KU
• Member of the Musicians in Medicine club at KU
• Member of the Philosotea club at KU

Dream Job: Research Geologist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: KC Scholars is a very important organization, not just to me but to my family. They gave me the means to be part of the first generation of my family to go through college and have supported me as I navigated this new experience. Being able to give back as an ambassador makes my journey feel full circle!

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: After going to the events put on by KC Scholars at my university, it was touching to see just how many people were also a part of this group. The ambassadors who ran the events were always kind and friendly, the kind of people I would want to be myself.

What’s one item on your bucket list: I want to visit all 7 continents someday! Currently at 3.

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Nursing

Extracurriculars: I am very involved in my church. 

Dream Job: Life Coach

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: It is important as an adult learner to have the support of others while you journey through life and are still figuring it out. It gives adult learners the chance to go back to school and better themselves and engage with others as we continue to learn and grow.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I would just like to have more positive connections, encourage others as they are bettering themselves, and be someone they can relate to and feel supported by. I also believe it will be a great experience to learn and apply leadership skills.

What’s one item on your bucket list:  I don’t have one, but I believe in a living list. The things I want to enjoy as I live, not check off before I die.

Year in School: 2024

Program of Study: Nursing

Extracurriculars: Community service, elderly service and giving back to the community 

Dream Job: Travel Nurse

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being apart of KC Scholars to me means to be selected to be part of a welcoming community and given a chance to succeed!

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: What inspired me to become an ambassador is to encourage others and to show other than you can be successful.

What’s one item on your bucket list: One item on my bucket list is helping a scholarship or job fair!!

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: LPN bridge to BSN 

Extracurriculars:

• Currently applying to work at a hospital

Dream Job: My dream career is to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and work as a registered nurse, where I can make a positive impact on patients’ lives through compassionate care.

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: KC Scholars means I will have the opportunity to pursue my school and career goals with help and coaching along the way. It has opened doors for me and given me the courage to strive towards obtaining my BSN degree and becoming a nurse. I’m truly blessed and appreciative to be a part of KC Scholars.

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: I was inspired to become an ambassador because I want to give back to a program that has helped me pursue my goals. I also want to connect with other students. As well as share my experiences, and encourage them to take advantage of the opportunities KC Scholars provides.

What’s one item on your bucket list: One item on my bucket list is earning my BSN degree and becoming a nurse. I’m excited about the opportunity to help people and make a meaningful difference in their lives through healthcare.

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Psychology 

Extracurriculars:

• Member of Psi Beta Chapter
• Club Development Member of Fearless Firsts at KCKCC

Dream Job: Art Therapist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means being part of a program focused on improving our community. A community is only as successful and thriving as its members. By giving many community members the opportunity for a higher education, KC Scholars is giving our community as a whole an opportunity to succeed. I am blessed to be a part of this!

What inspired you to become an Ambassador: Returning for my second year as a KC Scholars Ambassador at KCKCC was an easy decision to make! What inspired me to be an ambassador again is the motivation and encouragement I received and felt last year, working closely with other ambassadors, advocates, and leaders. Being surrounded by so many creative and driven people has had such a positive impact on my life, plus, the people I have met and got to hang out with along the way are pretty cool in my opinion!

What’s one item on your bucket list: This year, one item high on my bucket list is to join the 10-day study-abroad group going to Italy in the spring 2027 semester. It will be my first time in Europe, and I cannot wait!

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Nursing

Extracurriculars:

• Starting a CPR training business.

Dream Job: Nurse

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars has completely changed my life. Through this opportunity, I am pursuing a career in healthcare, where I can make a difference in the lives of others while providing for my family. KC Scholars has inspired me to give back, and I hope to help others achieve their educational and career goals just as KC Scholars helped me achieve mine.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I was inspired to become an ambassador because KC Scholars has had such a positive impact on my life, and I want others to know that opportunities like this exist. I enjoy encouraging and supporting other students as they pursue their educational goals, and I hope to help them see that their dreams are achievable.

What’s one item on your bucket list: One item on my bucket list is becoming a certified scuba diver. I’ve always been fascinated by the ocean and the opportunity to explore an entirely different world underwater. Earning my certification would allow me to experience new adventures and create unforgettable memories.

Year in School: Sophomore/Junior

Program of Study: Cybersecurity Minor in Computer Science

Extracurriculars:

• Outside of my role as an ambassador, I am pursuing a degree in computer science while balancing work and academics. I am also focused on developing leadership, communication, and professional skills through school and community involvement.

Dream Job: My dream job is to become a Cloud Security Engineer. 

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means having the opportunity to further my education while gaining support to reach my academic and career goals. It represents motivation to stay focused, succeed in college, and use my education to build a strong future for myself.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I was inspired to become an ambassador because I want to help guide and encourage other students who are working toward their college and career goals. I also want to develop leadership skills and be a positive example for others navigating similar paths in education.

What’s one item on your bucket list: One item on my bucket list is to travel outside of the country. The first country I would love to go to is Thailand!

Year in School: Sophomore

Program of Study: Psychology: Research & Biology: Environmental Sciences

Extracurriculars:

Outside of this opportunity, I support media, music, and livestreaming at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Kansas City, Kansas. I also participated as an interviewed student panelist at HDF’s En Común Student Summit and presented at the Student Research Conference in the Psychological Sciences at KCKCC.

Dream Job: Marine Wildlife Conservation Biologist.

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being part of KC Scholars means having a community that believes in my potential and supports my journey through higher education. As a student pursuing Psychology and Biology, it reminds me that my goals are possible and that I can use my education to give back to others and create meaningful impact.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I was inspired to become an ambassador because KC Scholars has supported my journey and helped me believe more in my future. I want to represent that same support for other students and help them feel encouraged in their own college path.

What’s one item on your bucket list: One item on my bucket list is to see manatees in person. I think they are fascinating, and it would be a meaningful experience connected to my interest in marine wildlife.

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: Major: Marketing Minor: Advertising and PR

Extracurriculars:

• College soccer player (Avila University)
• Assistant Girls Soccer Coach (High school)
• Community involvement (member of the campus at Avila University, first-generation and Latina students).

Dream Job: Building my own marketing agency and helping small businesses grow.

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: To me, being a part of KC Scholars means having the opportunity to turn my passion for leadership and community impact into tangible results right here in my community. As a first-generation student and immigrant, navigating higher education can feel completely overwhelming, but this program provides a better future for me and my family. Proves that their sacrifices are worth it and that I belong here.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I want to inspire others from a similar background and make a difference and claim these life-changing opportunities. Seeing someone who shares their story can be the exact influence a student needs to realize that higher education is fully within their reach. By sharing my journey, I hope to be a guide and encouragement for others.

What’s one item on your bucket list: My top bucket list item is to travel outside of the United States, especially to South Korea. I want to experience a completely new culture, explore beautiful places, and see a different part of the world.

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Psychology

Extracurriculars:

• Jerusalem Farms 

Dream Job: Therapist

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means being able to graduate from college debt-free and the freedom to spend my time outside of school doing things I’m passionate about, like Jerusalem Farm.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I wanted to give back to the program, plus I always love building community.

What’s one item on your bucket list: I’m eager to have a home I can welcome people into.

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: Pre-Med with a minor in Psychology

Extracurriculars:

• TRIO
• Tri-Beta Member
• NSLS
• Society of Latinos (SOL)

Dream Job: Physician Assistant

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: Being a part of KC Scholars means being able to accomplish my dreams. KC Scholars gave me an opportunity to be able to pursue higher education and I am forever grateful for this opportunity. I am so proud to be part of a program that encourages Scholars to pursue their dreams and goals.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I want to be a resource for incoming Scholars and current Scholars on my campus. Growing up as a first-generation college student, I wasn’t aware of the different opportunities around me, so I want to be someone who encourages Scholars to pursue their goals.

What’s one item on your bucket list: I would love to travel to Europe with my family!

Year in School: Junior/Senior

Program of Study: Major: Psychology, Minor: Human Development and Family Sciences

Extracurriculars:

• Paradigm
• Navigators
• Psi Chi
• The Gathering Coffee House
• My local Church (SOL)

Dream Job: Clinical Psychology/Counseling

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: KC Scholars provides a family in a place that may not feel completely like “home.”

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: I want to help others have a sense of community on campus and be a light for them!

What’s one item on your bucket list: Hiking in Colorado!

Year in School: Junior

Program of Study: Digital Media Production

Extracurriculars:

• PR for Media Creators Association

Dream Job: Director

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: For me, being a part of KC Scholars means having access to opportunities and support that can shape my future.

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: What inspired me to become an ambassador is wanting to help others find their success. I want to be a positive influence and an easy resource for students who are struggling.

What’s one item on your bucket list: Go to a lantern festival.

Year in School: Senior

Program of Study: English, Creative & Technical Writing 

Extracurriculars:

• Academic Success Coach at UCM
• Intern Social Media Director for Pleiades Magazine
• Editor for Arcade Literary Magazine

Dream Job: To work in publishing/marketing. I’d love to be a part of journalism within that realm and see the world while writing!

What does being a part of KC Scholars mean to you: To me, it represents my hard work and dedication to my education and future career. It gives me the opportunity to create more, expand my knowledge, grow my potential, and make the most out of all of it!

What inspired you to become an  Ambassador: My biggest inspiration is my on campus job at UCM where I coach and support students along their college journey. Through this job, I have learned so much about building community & becoming a leader, even at a young age. I hope to give back with this experience and share my skills alongside my peers.

What’s one item on your bucket list: To visit New York City during Christmas time!