During the 2023-24 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 2023-24 Ambassadors, Norman.

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

A: I am Norman Reyes, I graduated from LPS Richmond and I am now majoring in computer science at UC Berkeley. 

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

A: As a Near-Peer Ambassador, I’m most looking forward to the opportunity to make a positive impact on students who are in a similar position to where I once was. I want to share my experiences and knowledge to help them navigate the often complex and overwhelming process of higher education decision-making. It’s an exciting prospect to guide and support these students in exploring their options for higher education and assisting them in making informed choices for their future.

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: Begin the process as early as possible. Don’t limit yourself to just highly competitive institutions. Include schools where you are likely to be admitted as well. Look into scholarships, grants, and financial aid options. Most of all: Be authentic in your applications. Highlight your genuine interests and experiences. You are unique in your own way and you should be able to demonstrate that in your application.

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

A: Building relationships with people. In high school, you are very limited and sort of in a little box. In college, you get to choose who you interact with and what experiences you submit yourself to. You dictate your own college experience.

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

A: I am looking forward to exploring different ways in which I can give back to my community and make a positive impact on individuals who come from the same background as me.