Karina Aguilar-Ontiveros

University of Colorado Boulder

Karina says, “Being a first-generation student is one of the main reasons why I chose to apply to college and further my education. Not only that but I will be the first to graduate from college. I’m not the first person in my family to go to college, but everyone who has attended has abandoned their college career after experiencing financial difficulties.”

But #DoublePell “would mean progress for me and my entire family. For years we have dreamed of a better life, especially my mom who strived her best for me to be able to attend college. My family has never been fortunate enough to experience the joy of completing college, much less without the help of grants such as this one.”

Karina says she plans on furthering her education and attending medical school. “I am completely set that neuroscience is my passion, and I intend to do good with it. I truly believe that my purpose and willingness to attend college is for the sake of others instead of my own.”