“I'm now focused on continuing my education.” Support helps Hostos students complete their degrees

During the pandemic, financial hardship forced certain students at Hostos Community College in the Bronx to drop out. Scholarships and individualized assistance supported by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) are helping some of those students reenroll and complete their degrees.

Extending the impact of federal and state tuition relief that was available during the pandemic but since discontinued, the program helps each student craft a path toward graduation, provides academic advising, and offers supplemental support including mental health services, affordable childcare, help applying for financial aid, and more.

Hear from a few of the participants about their experience.

Leticia A.

What motivated you to pursue higher education at Hostos?

I had the choice to attend any college, but I chose Hostos because of the invaluable resources available here. Through programs like the Hostos Family Empowering Student Program, the food pantry, One-Stop's fresh products, and the grants offered, I can provide for my kids and family without bearing the full financial burden. These resources have been instrumental in alleviating food insecurity for us, ensuring that hunger doesn't hinder my college journey or impact my family's well-being. I'm grateful for the support I receive at Hostos, which enables me to focus on my education without worrying about basic needs.

What are your goals after graduation?

My goal is to work and give back to the community

Roshana A.

Tell us about your educational journey. How has your experience been in your return to college?

I'm glad that I was able to return to college. Even though it's been hard, when I returned, I faced some issues regarding my status as a student. Thankfully, the staff at Hostos has helped me vastly, and I'm now focused on continuing my education. I'm grateful for the opportunity.

What motivated you to pursue higher education at Hostos?

I wanted to become a Nurse to find better employment opportunities and help the community.

Adriano C.

Tell us about your educational journey. How has your experience been in your return to college?

Well, my educational journey has been both good and challenging. I have a family; being a parent and working while attending college has been arduous. However, I'm convinced that It will set an excellent example for my kids and future generations.

In what ways has Hostos contributed to your personal and professional growth?

It allowed me to push myself to go beyond my limits and become a better version of myself. My professors at Hostos taught me the importance of learning different skills to be more productive and join other fields besides accounting, my current major. At the moment, I'm learning QuickBooks, which will allow me to be self-employed after I graduate at the end of the current semester.

Ashanti M.

Tell us about your educational journey. How has your experience been in your return to college?

My experience has been positive; receiving ample support has been essential for my continued success in college.

In what ways has Hostos contributed to your personal and professional growth?

Hostos has offered me numerous opportunities, helping me stay on track with my studies and providing access to essential resources for graduation and a brighter future.

Brandon C.

Tell us about your educational journey. How has your experience been in your return to college?

Returning to college has been both exciting and challenging, but incredibly educational. Embracing this opportunity has not only enriched my academic knowledge but also provided me with a platform for personal growth and development.

In what ways has Hostos contributed to your personal and professional growth?

Hostos has provided a lot of opportunities to engage with professionals in the IT industry. Interactions with faculty and staff members, who bring valuable expertise and insights, have been instrumental in fueling my motivation and nurturing my growth as a professional.

SNF believes in the power of education to unlock the world of potential in every human and has proudly partnered with Hostos to support its students for a decade.