“Although my father attended college later in life, I am the first person in my family to go to college directly out of high school. Because of the financial support that Say Yes offers, I am able to attend Syracuse University as a social work and psychology major. I would not have even considered attending this institution otherwise because I could have never afforded to do so. As a social work major, Say Yes has reinforced my passion for wanting to help... |
"Say Yes has made me who I am today. I never thought I would be able to attend Syracuse University. My original plan was to go to a local community college so I could save money. I feared I would have to take time off so I could work to save money before I went on to receive a BA. Because of Say Yes, I had the opportunity to go to a great 4 year school right out of high school, and I am able to spend my spare time interning and volunteering because I do not have to save up money... |
"At the age of 14, I was abandoned by my mother and was forced to take care of myself. From then until I was 17 years old, I moved 17 times-- from house to house—between my family and friends. I was going to school and working two jobs. It was really tough. Just before my senior year, I decided it was time to get a place of my own. So there I was--in my senior year of high school--living on my own in a small apartment struggling to afford the bills, working non-stop and trying to focus on school. I realized that this is what my life would be like if I didn’t make a change. I knew I wanted more. And that’s when I set my sights on college... |
I graduated from Henninger High School in 2009 ranked 9th in my class. College was always my goal, and beyond that, teaching in the Syracuse City School District. I was expecting college loans would leave me with overwhelming debt but thankfully Say Yes to Education was able to help me pay for college. With the help of Say Yes to Education grants and scholarships, I am able to attend one of my dream colleges–Hobart and William Smith. I am halfway through my sophomore year and can’t believe the opportunities I have had. I’ve always taken my education seriously and also known I wanted to pursue a degree in education. At Hobart and William Smith I am able to gain... |
Although my mom did not go to college, she always stressed to me the value of an education and really opened my eyes to the different opportunities an education may bring. It was important for me to continue my education because I enjoy learning and someday I want to be able to support myself and my family. Without the help of Say Yes I would have still gone to college, however I would have been forced to work extremely hard to afford college which may have served as a distraction from my studies. Because my tuition is paid for by Say Yes, I am able to save money for other future goals such as buying my first home. This program has really taken a great deal of stress from both me and my mom financially speaking. |
It was important for me to earn a college degree because my parents did not attend college and I wanted to make them proud and also ensure a better future for myself. Additionally, my goal has been to become a social worker and I would not be able to achieve my goal without furthering my education. Say Yes to Education gave me the chance to go to college and earn my degree without having the stress of student loans. Also, because there are so many participating schools in the Say Yes program, I was able to find a wonderful which was the right fit for me. Without this program, I may have had to start at a different school to my myself and my family money. |
Throughout my high school careeer my parents and brothers served as an incredible support system, motivating me and pushing me to do well in my studies. When i graduated from high school, I knew pursuing a college educationg would ensure a better future and life for me. It also enabled me to explore different opportunities which will lead me to different places in the country as well as the world. Acquiring a college education is a costly task. However, Say Yes to Education made me for financially suitable for college. The financial support given by Say Yes allowed me to use any extra money, and put it in other places. I was and still can explore things and places which I enjoy and can heavily learn from. I am thankful to be... |
Fifty-six Say Yes Scholars worked as Enrichment Specialists in the 2011 Say Yes Summer Camps! The Scholars were among over 300 local college students representing 46 colleges and universities that led a full range of enrichment activities, indlucing dance, music, art, drama, sports, leadership and community engagement acitivities. |
"Say Yes has given me a chance to attend my top choice college. Without the presence of a significantly reduced tuition bill, I would not be able to go to Hobart and William Smith Colleges and reap all the benefits I have thus far. I was able to accept my placement as a member of the Class of 2014. Say Yes to Education has opened up so many windows of opportunity to me, making the possibilities endless. Say Yes believes in me, and I intend on making the most of that support. In May of 2014, I will graduate with a major in public policy of education and a double minor in psychology and Spanish, I will have traveled to multiple continents, and learned from numerous cultures along the way; thus embodying a global education." |
Say Yes is the best program I have ever participated in because they don't just help high school students go to college, but they help us while we're in college as well. Say Yes has and will make future students want to achieve more in life because of their support and willingness to do anything they can for you. |
