Azriel Jones currently attends Sacramento State University and is a member of the class of 2025. A graduate of El Cerrito High School, she is majoring in Criminal Justice at Sac State.

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 have been a Richmond resident since I was 3, Richmond is all I have ever known, and I am proud to be from here. I say that I am proud to be from here because Richmond is the city of Pride and Purpose, and knowing that this is the city I am from, greatness is expected from me. I am motivated by family, and I am also motivated to start a legacy in my family and break generational curses. Being a first-gen student in college is enough motivation and it always keeps me on my toes, because I want to strive for success. 

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

A: Richmond Promise has played a huge role in my education by giving me a scholarship that allows me to attend school. Not having to worry about funds for school is a weight off me and my family’s shoulders. Being able to focus on my academics allows me to always want to give back to my community in Richmond. Richmond Promise has allowed me to receive mentoring and also do some mentoring, which is something I am always striving to do. 

Q: Why did you choose to be a Richmond Promise Summer Associate and what are you hoping to take from the experience?

A: I have chosen to become a Summer Associate because I know how scary it can be going to college, especially as a first-gen student. I want to be able to share my experiences with the students I come across and I also possibly would love to find a mentee within this process. I love to give back to my peers in my community and being a Summer Associate gives me the outlet to do so. 

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

A: I would love to contribute new ways for the youth of Richmond to go straight to college. Being from Richmond, I know what it is like to have to fight a little bit harder for us to get where we want to. It is not easy for us to automatically get accepted into school or even have mentors who encourage us. I would like to make it simpler for us to go straight to college, whether that be help with tuition, college apps, high school courses, or even just family issues. I want to start with Richmond then take it to other cities in the world. College should be easily accessible to everyone, and I want to make it possible. 

Q: Can you tell us about your current college experience? 

A: My college experience so far has been great and nothing like I imagined. I have learned so much about real life things that I feel confident to help others. I have joined multiple organizations and I have managed to balance my work life and social life all while keeping my grades up. I feel like the biggest thing I have learned and gained from college is multitasking. 

Q: What are you looking forward to after receiving your bachelor’s/transferring?

A: After receiving my bachelor’s degree, I am looking forward to attending Pepperdine University to obtain my MBA and J.D.  in their joint 4-year program. I am hoping to become an attorney and eventually come back to Richmond to be able to give back to my community once I am done with school.