During the 2024-25 school year, the Richmond Promise College Access Team will be joined in its work by Near-Peer Ambassadors. These members of our team are current RP Scholars who assist in the execution of in-classroom programming in local high schools. We are pleased to introduce you to one of our 2024-25 Ambassadors, Luis.

Q: First, some basic info. Tell us your name, current school, the high school you graduated from and your major (or intended field of study):

A: My name is Luis Barrera, and I’m currently attending Contra Costa College as a second-year student. I graduated from Hercules High School and I’m planning to get into the healthcare field, particularly nursing. As of right now I’m doing my prerequisite classes in order to reach this goal!

Q: What are you most looking forward to about being an RP Near-Peer Ambassador and what are you hoping to get from the experience?

A: As an RP Near-Peer Ambassador, I’m looking forward to gaining new experience and being able to assist people. I’d like to further develop my skill sets, whether it be social, academically, or something else. I’m excited for potential opportunities that might present themselves!

Q: If you were going to give advice to a high school senior about going through the college application process, what would it be?

A: If I was to give advice to any high school student currently going through college apps, I’d say don’t be afraid to ask questions. There were so many questions I had when applying, and I had counselors and teachers who were always keen to answer them. No question is unintelligent, and with the right people to ask you can get comfortable with your applications! I would even extend this beyond just college apps and into settings like jobs!

Q: What’s the best part about being in college/what should a high school senior look forward to?

A: You should look forward to having a new experience, making new friends and getting to know people. Meeting and talking with new people can be a great stress reliever, especially in college. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to anyone as well!

Q: What are you most looking forward to after college?

A: After college, I’m looking forward to creating new connections and personal experiences. I’d like to do things such as travel and experience different cultures, learn new languages, while also continuing building a strong resume for potential future employers.