Samantha Estrada is a graduate of Richmond High School who currently attends San Francisco State University. Samantha plans to major in Public Health.

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 grew up in Richmond and am currently attending SFSU studying public health. I’m still trying to figure out a specific career in healthcare, but I am looking to help people like me who grew up low income and faced struggles with the healthcare system. What motivates me is my parents, seeing how they have struggled a lot. I wanted to make them proud, seeing how much they went through.

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

A: It was something I always wanted to do, but it didn’t really hit me when I was working through the applications. At first I was just applying, but then I started getting acceptance letters and it was real.

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

A: A lot financially, they’ve supported me being able to attend. With the scholarship I am able to attend classes and keep going with my education.

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

A: What caught my eye was all the services advising me, so getting in meant I would have someone I could rely on. Having someone to go through and help with stuff like building a resume is good, since I’m still new to that.

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

A: With wanting to pursue healthcare, I want to give back. Whatever I choose to do it will help the community whether it is advocating for health services or providing them.

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

A: It’s been fun, I’ve been able to get through everything without struggling. It’s new and is helping me grow more independent. Being able to experience campus life and joining clubs, meeting new people has been really fun and new.

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

A: A lot of it is struggling with school and finances. Being able to push through that and study is sometimes challenging.

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: Always reach out for help, especially in the beginning when everything is new. Make sure you know what you are getting into and know where everything on your campus is.

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

A: I look forward to continuing my education, either by doing graduate school or medical school while also doing other internships or jobs.