Meet Our Near-Peer Ambassadors: Maritza Lopez

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, Maritza.

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 Maritza Lopez. I am a transfer student from Contra Costa College and currently attend San Francisco State University. I went to Making Waves Academy. My major is Sociology.

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 am most looking forward to helping high school students through the process of applying to college or helping them figure out what they want to do. I want to help them figure out their options, whether they choose to go or not go to college. I hope to gain more social skills and just help out my community.

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 want to let them know that it is a long process but this process will help open a new chapter in their lives. So, don’t be discouraged by how long the process is.

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

A: The best part about college is how much more time you have on your hands. You get to choose your own schedule. I haven’t been to classes on Fridays since high school. Take that 3 day weekend!

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

A: I am looking forward to find a job where I can help people and make people feel comfortable to reach out to me.