Name: Itzel López About Itzel: Itzel, a determined and ambitious student, was born in Weslaco and raised in Progreso. She is a junior at Progreso High School where she is involved in volleyball, soccer and cross country. She has also been a part of the Progreso Early College High School Academy since the seventh grade. “The early college high school program is a great opportunity,” she said. “Although balancing high school and college is challenging, I know it will help me further on in life.” “At times I may have to stay up late studying or miss an outing with … Read More …

Name: Yanci Rios About Yanci: After 14 years of working as an administrative professional, Yanci was let go as a result of the financial crisis. In 2010, she decided to visit South Texas College and within a week before classes started, she was able to take a college entrance exam, apply for financial aid, get advised and register. Yanci walked across the stage in May with an associate’s degree in teaching and a 4.0 GPA, one step closer to achieving her ultimate dream of being an educator. “Ever since I was a little girl, I have dreamt of becoming a teacher,” Yanci expressed. … Read More …