Monica Figueroa is a graduate of El Cerrito High School who currently attends Contra Costa College. Monica plans to major in Nursing.

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Is there anything in particular that motivates you as you go through college and prepare yourself for a career?

A: I would say that my mom and family push me to be successful. My family supports me in my career and decisions and helps to guide me to where I want to be.

Q: When did you first realize that you were college-bound?

A: There wasn’t a moment, not really, I was just like “dang i have to go to college now.” The 4 years in high school went by fast. If anything I feel that I grew as a person and as a student going into college.

Q: How has Richmond Promise played a role in your education?

A: Richmond Promise has definitely played a role with helping me pay for books, even things like some new clothes. The Scholars Celebration felt like it was a return, holding your hand and dropping you off on the steps. Being able to see all of our friends all in one place and share a ceremony with them was nice. I feel that I was supported and starting on a good foot.

Q: Why did you choose to apply for RP Leads, and what are you hoping to take from the experience?

A: One of the really big things was the internships because in healthcare and nursing it is very competitive. I was hoping that it would help me to get into the program that I want.

Q: What do you want to contribute to Richmond and/or the world?

A: I really like helping people and helping my community. I like being a part of something and helping the people around you get better.

Q: How has your current college experience gone, and what has been the best part?

A: Meeting new people. You meet so many new people with different personalities, talking with different students and professors from different backgrounds and making connections with them.

Q: What challenges have you overcome to get to where you are today?

A: With my friends we all went to different schools and even different states for college so it has been hard, but I have also found new people to connect with.

Q: What advice would you give to a first-year Richmond Promise Scholar who is just heading off to a new college or CTE program?

A: 100% stay organized and manage your time. Organization has been the #1 thing to help with my grades, so I know how much time I need to spend to get an A. You have to be disciplined, too. Even if you don’t want to do it, you still have to.

Q: What are you looking forward to doing after finishing school?

A: Making money! But seriously, finally being able to say “I’m a nurse.” Spending so much time building up to it to be able to finally say it means a lot.