{"id":4544,"date":"2024-03-26T09:50:56","date_gmt":"2024-03-26T16:50:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.callutheran.edu\/programs\/?page_id=4544"},"modified":"2026-04-03T15:15:58","modified_gmt":"2026-04-03T22:15:58","slug":"first-generation","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.callutheran.edu\/programs\/graduate\/first-generation\/","title":{"rendered":"MS in Counseling STRIVE Scholars"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"intro mb-4\">Navigating graduate school can be difficult, especially for those who may be the first in their families to pursue a higher education. We aim to assist our first-generation students by offering resources and support tailored to their needs.<\/p>\n<div class=\"card strive-card rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral mb-4 p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-3 order-md-last\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col h-100 pe-0 pe-lg-2\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top h-100\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-jgalvan.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Jesse Galvan '23\" \/>\n                    <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-9 order-md-first\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;The STRIVE Scholars program has given me a place to thrive and blossom. In this space, all of me is accepted and my past traumas are healed. I\u2019ve learned that I am worthy, powerful and resilient. Today, I stand as living proof that a gay Latino belongs in graduate school.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Jesse Galvan &#8217;23<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"gray-hr\">\n<h2 class=\"txt-bold\">What Is the STRIVE Scholars Program?<\/h2>\n<p>First-generation scholars will always be first generation \u2014 undergraduate, graduate school, careers. The STRIVE Scholars Program is a space where first-generation students can share their journey, be understood and recognize their cultural wealth as an asset. They are supported by a community of other first-generation scholars who all share one common goal: giving back to their communities.<\/p>\n<p>The STRIVE Scholars Program offers academic, cultural and leadership development opportunities to first-generation graduate students in the counselor education program at Cal Lutheran. We continue to work towards improving educational experiences and outcomes for this important student population. We are committed to maintaining a supportive learning environment in which first-generation students feel a strong sense of belonging, as well as personal and academic success.<\/p>\n<p>Our program is based on cultural wealth and emotionally intelligent leadership frameworks. We understand interconnectedness with each other and the world around us and honor the Mayan concept of Inlak\u2019ech, which translates to \u201cyou are my other me.\u201d Honoring this concept, we take time to understand and reflect on ourselves and our personal and professional growth as we continue this journey to serve as leaders and advocates in the world.<\/p>\n<hr class=\"gray-hr\">\n<h2 class=\"txt-bold\">How Does the Program Work?<\/h2>\n<div id=\"accordion-strive\" class=\"accordion accordion-flush curriculum-courses custom-accordion mb-4\">\n<div class=\"accordion-item\">\n<h3 id=\"first-year-header\" class=\"accordion-header\"><button class=\"accordion-button collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#first-year\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse1\">First year<\/button><\/h3>\n<div id=\"first-year\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"first-year-header\" data-bs-parent=\"#first-year-header\">\n<div class=\"accordion-body\">\n<p>During their first year in the program, students will attend four different workshops. Some of the topics discussed in the workshops include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mt-4 mb-0\">\n<li>Cultural Wealth and Emotional Intelligence Leadership<\/li>\n<li>Scholarship and Decolonization of the Self<\/li>\n<li>Life Success and Academics <\/li>\n<li>Networking and Community Engagement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Additionally, students learn about the conference proposal and presentation process. Interested students are encouraged to present their research at professional conferences. <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion-item\">\n<h3 id=\"second-year-header\" class=\"accordion-header\"><button class=\"accordion-button collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#second-year\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse1\">Second year<\/button><\/h3>\n<div id=\"second-year\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"second-year-header\" data-bs-parent=\"#second-year-header\">\n<div class=\"accordion-body\">\n<p class=\"mb-0\">At the end of their first year in the program, students will be invited to apply to be a STRIVE mentor for incoming first year STRIVE Scholar students. They will be assigned mentees based on the counselor education program they\u2019re in (PPS or CSP). Each mentor has a small group of mentees they work with throughout the year to provide support, guidance and answers to any questions they may have.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion-item\">\n<h3 id=\"third-year-header\" class=\"accordion-header\"><button class=\"accordion-button collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#third-year\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse1\">Third year<\/button><\/h3>\n<div id=\"third-year\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"third-year-header\" data-bs-parent=\"#third-year-header\">\n<div class=\"accordion-body\">\n<p class=\"mb-0\">Students may be asked to come back to the program as guest speakers to new cohorts and share their experience as a STRIVE Scholar.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"gray-hr\">\n<h2 class=\"txt-bold\">How To Apply<\/h2>\n<p>To apply to be a member of the incoming cohort, you must first be admitted into the counselor education program. The online application for STRIVE Scholars allows you to share your experience as a first-generation college student and your goals as a graduate student.<\/p>\n<p>Please note that you must be able to commit to attending at least three workshops in the first year of the program to be considered to be a STRIVE mentor in the second year or express interest in presenting at professional conferences as part of the program. The incoming cohort members will be announced within the first two weeks of the fall semester.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/forms\/d\/e\/1FAIpQLScKe303-WSlfa7ArxLYi9MfZIEEUn5N-Z1mSM3_mEISBI0pHw\/viewform\" class=\"btn btn-gold-alt mb-2\">Start Your Application<\/a><\/p>\n<hr class=\"gray-hr\">\n<h2 class=\"txt-bold\">What Our Students Say<\/h2>\n<div class=\"strive-student-quotes\">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-vbarragan.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Veronica R. Barragan '22\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;The STRIVE Scholars program allowed me to meet current mentors, share our stories and network. It helped me strengthen my communication skills and gain confidence in my voice. It has also allowed me to highlight my leadership skills as a mentor to three first-year graduate mentees.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Veronica R. Barragan &#8217;22<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-agarcia.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Aldo Campos-Garcia '21\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;The STRIVE Scholars program provided a space where I could utilize my cultural wealth and lived experiences as transformative tools that help me succeed as a first-generation graduate student. It\u2019s programs like these that help you find your purpose in your career as an educator. Many students face adversities that hinder their opportunities for a post-secondary education, however, it only takes one educator to believe in them. I want to be that educator for students.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Aldo Campos-Garcia &#8217;21<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-nmeza.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Norma Meza '22\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;The STRIVE Scholars program is geared to helping first-generation students find their voice, feel a sense of belonging and achieve personal and academic success. This program is preparing me for success in my career because it is providing me with academic and personal knowledge to help me build my self-confidence, navigate the educational system and gain experience in counseling.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Norma Meza &#8217;22<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-vgonzalez.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Vanessa Gonzalez '21\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;As a first-generation student, I wanted to be a part of a safe and courageous community that would provide unconditional support, love and validation. Through the STRIVE Scholars Program, I discovered the warrior inside of me and created the champion I want for my future students.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Vanessa Gonzalez &#8217;21<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-arodriguez.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Alejandro Rodriguez '22\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;As a first-generation student, mentorship was a great help to me in navigating new systems I was exposed to. This program allows me to grow as a mentor which is a large aspect of educational counseling. It also prepares me to be a leader in the program, school site and community. The best thing this program provided me was the ability to build a community of like-minded individuals who are all striving to be better versions of themselves with a common goal to help others.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Alejandro Rodriguez &#8217;22<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-msandoval.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Maria Sandoval '22\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;The STRIVE Scholars program has given me the tools to enhance my interpersonal skills, be aware of my cultural wealth and move towards cultural proficiency. I\u2019ve had the opportunity to network with wonderful people and improve my professional and personal development.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Maria Sandoval &#8217;22<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-gambriz.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Gabriela Jasso Ambriz '22\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;I would recommend other first-generation students join the STRIVE Scholars Program because they find and build supportive relationships with professors and other first-generation students. It also gives you the opportunity to present at conferences, which helps boost your confidence and resume.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Gabriela Jasso Ambriz &#8217;22<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-mmilian.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Mireya Milian '20\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;In the STRIVE Scholars program, I was able to merge my background with my profession, something that I felt were two separate entities in my life. My story is powerful and unique, I can openly honor the decisions my family has taken so I can pursue my education and achieve my wildest dreams. I would recommend this program to students who want to dig deeper with their own cultural reflections and braid their personal, scholar and professional first-generation identities.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Mireya Milian &#8217;20<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-asosa.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Alexandria Sosa '21\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;Through the STRIVE Scholars program, I was able to co-present a workshop on Resiliency Building and Goal Setting at the Adelante Mujer Latina Conference at Pasadena City College. It was an amazing experience to collaborate with a peer and inspire young latinas. This program has also introduced me to alumni and professors in the counseling field who share their experiences with us, giving me first-hand knowledge of what it will be like as a school counselor.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Alexandria Sosa &#8217;21<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-fhernandez.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Fatima Hernandez '21\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;As a STRIVE Scholar, you get to meet new people, make professional connections and explore your field. It helped to instill confidence in me and got me out of my comfort zone by presenting and reflecting on my own culture, strengths and skills. I was able to present at two professional conferences with my classmates, CASC and MALCS.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Fatima Hernandez &#8217;21<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-tmagana.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Tatiana Magana '23\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;The imposter syndrome has definitely been a struggle for me, feeling like I don\u2019t deserve to be in graduate school. Fortunately, the STRIVE Scholars Program challenges those beliefs and shows us how we can be the best leaders and advocates for ourselves, community and our future students.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Tatiana Magana &#8217;23<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-lg-6 mb-4\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card h-100 rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col-small\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-enosco.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Erin Nosco '23\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-12\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;As a first-generation student, I always try to seek community-building programs that offer me the chance to connect with others. The program is preparing me for success by teaching me about emotional intelligence, creating a welcoming space where people understand my struggles and allowing me to learn from first-generation school counselors in the field.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Erin Nosco &#8217;23<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item END --><\/p>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item LARGE BEGIN --><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-12\">\n<div class=\"card strive-card rounded-0 border-0 bg-neutral p-4\">\n<div class=\"row g-0\">\n<div class=\"col-md-3\">\n<div class=\"col strive-image-col h-100 pe-0 pe-lg-2\">\n<div class=\"d-flex align-items-top h-100\">\n<div class=\"strive-image d-block mx-auto mt-0 mt-md-3\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/callutheran.allcampus.com\/wp-content\/themes\/callutheran\/images\/strive-quotes\/strive-slainez.jpg\" class=\"img-fluid text-center\" alt=\"Selena Lainez '22\" \/>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-md-9\">\n<div class=\"card-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"blockquote mb-0\">\n<p>&#8220;I applied to be a member of the STRIVE Scholars Program because I wanted to take advantage of all the resources, mentorship, guidance and support that Cal Lutheran offers its students. Professor Rowley and Dr. Coronado are culturally aware of our communities and remind us why our presence matters in this program. Through the activities, we\u2019re reminded that there will be obstacles that present themselves, but we can overcome any barriers by remembering who we are and the power of our stories. My favorite aspect of the program is sharing an open but safe space with other students who share the same goals and vision I share, which is to be the best counselor possible for our younger generations.&#8221;<\/p>\n<hr class=\"blue-hr\">\n<footer class=\"blockquote-footer txt-bold txt-blue\">Selena Lainez &#8217;22<\/footer>\n<\/blockquote><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Testimonial item LARGE END --><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"gray-hr\">\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.callutheran.edu\/programs\/graduate\/first-generation\/\" class=\"btn btn-purple read-more article-read-more\" aria-label=\"Read more about this article: MS in Counseling STRIVE Scholars \">Read 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