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 Orellana, and I am a third-year computer engineering major at San Francisco State University. I attended Richmond High School and graduated as part of the Class of 2022 after moving to Richmond in ninth grade from San Francisco. Initially, I was uncertain about how my high school experience would unfold after the move, but it turned out to be an incredible journey thanks to the friends I made along the way.

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: I have been working with Richmond Promise for over a year, assisting countless students with applications for financial aid, scholarships, and other college-related needs. Helping young scholars embark on their college journeys as prepared as possible has been deeply rewarding and gives me hope for future generations. It’s inspiring to see the increasing number of students eager to pursue higher education each year.

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: I encourage all students applying to college to consider their near future and envision where they see themselves, whether that means moving away from home or commuting to a nearby school. Many of my friends moved to other cities and lived on campus starting their first year, and they thoroughly enjoyed it, creating countless memories in their dorms. I got to experience a glimpse of this lifestyle during visits to their dorms at places like San Diego State and UC Davis. Based on their stories and my own experiences, I can confidently say that living on campus is a valuable opportunity if it’s available to you. As a commuter myself, I enjoy engaging in school activities, but balancing events with my schedule can be challenging. However, I always make it work if I’m genuinely interested in attending.

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

A: College has been a great experience for me, from meeting new people to attending different events. Some of my favorite memories have been with friends I already had and with new ones I met in class these past three years. Over these three years, I’ve made the most of my time by stepping out of my comfort zone and being more talkative with my classmates, a big change from high school, where I mostly stuck to my friend group. You should look forward to following your dreams in the field you’re interested in because it will play a big part in your life and future.

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

A: I’m really looking forward to working at a reputable tech company, ideally focusing on computer systems/hardware. That’s where I feel most in my element. I’m also excited about traveling and eventually living in Southern California as I have lived in the Bay my entire life. I know these goals won’t happen overnight, but I’m confident that with a growth mindset, I can achieve everything I’m aiming for after graduation.