Summer Science Program Provides College Experience

Benito Juarez Community Academy is a typical Chicago public high school. 97% of the students are from low-income families, 14% have disabilities and 13% do not speak English as their first language. The school is remodeling and expanding its facilities, but students still enter through metal detectors.

Nora is a sophomore and an “A” student at Juarez. Farther Foundation awarded Nora a scholarship to attend the Carleton College Summer Science program where she will engage in classroom and hands-on science learning in collaboration with top students from around the country and the world at one of the most academically rigorous colleges in the country.

Nora has a great understanding of how her experiences can be a benefit to her and those around her,

“Growing up as a first generation American with parents of Mexican descent, I have had the privilege of experiencing two cultures unfold. Both of these cultures have different things to offer me. I have learned the importance of perseverance and a strong work ethic from Mexico and gained an appreciation for an innovative mind, pioneering attitude, and diversity from America. Through experiences, challenges and accomplishments, I am able to see how all of these qualities have shaped who I am. This is imperative because in America exposing others to different cultures and ideas helps create a learning atmosphere where ideas are interchanged and both groups are able to learn from each other.”

She also has an appreciation for the opportunities her summer program will provide and a desire to be a leader in her community back home,

“For as long as I can remember I have had a strong interest in science and research, an aptitude for analysis and problem solving and a fascination with challenges. This has encouraged me to apply to the Carleton Summer Science Institute. I believe that this program will unlock the gates of opportunity to delve deeper into research, investigation, and clarifying science. It will also enhance my research skills, enabling me to do research thoroughly and conscientiously.  Also, attending Carleton Summer Science Institute will help me with my personal goal which is to create a Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (S.T.E.M.) club in my school for Latina girls. In particular, I want to involve girls because most of these fields are currently male-dominated. I do not want girls in my school to feel oppressed by gender, ethnic, or economic barriers. Rather, I want them to be part of a small and comfortable social setting where they are able to ask questions and learn for the sake of learning.”

Nora is one of the most impressive students we have had the opportunity to support at Farther Foundation. We expect her to take full advantage of her summer opportunity and to be inspired toward great academic and career achievement.

Go Farther!

---