Education is an opportunity for anyone to be successful. Growing up in between apartments and houses located in immigrant neighborhoods, my dreams to attend college were brittle, driven by my Chicano identity but lacking sufficient resources to attend higher education. The stories of my family validated my condition, and the young men started as ambitious and sharp, but socio-economic circumstances slowly wedged into their goals until they snapped, leaving theories of what could have been. As a first-generation American, I was overwhelmed with the rigid deadlines and trying to stand out among millions of other students, tormenting the day when I, too, would snap. Fortunately, I needn't look further than the Posse Foundation. Posse became the vehicle for my enrollment and success in college, paying for my application fees, editing my admissions essays, and paying for my college tuition. Furthermore, the professional connections and support I received from the Posse network was phenomenal. I went from 3 a.m. work shifts stocking products at the Home Depot to moving across the United States, getting research grants in San Francisco, working for the president of Taiwan in the Democratic Progressive Party, studying history throughout the Italian peninsula, and now working for the Los Angeles Public Library! I traveled the world before I turned twenty-one, everything paid for by academia. Through the Diversity and Inclusion Apprenticeship at the Library, I hope to pass the light of education onto the next group of teens, showing them that what lies behind them pales compared to what lies inside them.
The Posse Foundation is a non-profit organization in Los Angeles partnered with select colleges across the United States. Each partnering institution annually provides ten Los Angeles students a four-year, full-tuition scholarship to attend their school. Some Posse partner institutions include, but are not limited to, Northwestern University, Pepperdine University, Tulane University, Dickinson College, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The Los Angeles Public Library has begun talks with the Posse Foundation on outreach events, so teens know how to apply for and obtain Posse scholarships. Dickinson College has partnered with Posse for twenty years, supporting Los Angeles teens in getting a free secondary education. Led by Dickinson's Vice President and Dean of Student Life, George Stroud, the administrator has spent his entire professional career in higher education. During his thirty years as an educator, he has enjoyed the opportunity to serve as a role model and mentor to countless students. He considers himself a proud father and husband. I recently talked with him about the Posse Foundation and its mission.
What inspired you to maintain a relationship with the Posse Foundation and become a mentor for these scholars?
What inspired me to become a Posse mentor was witnessing the transformative power of support and community in education. When given the right resources and encouragement, I have seen firsthand how talented students from diverse backgrounds can overcome challenges and thrive academically, personally, and professionally. The Posse Foundation's mission to identify, nurture, and empower these students resonates deeply with my belief in the importance of equity and inclusion in higher education. I want to contribute to this mission, help scholars unlock their full potential, and foster a more diverse and inclusive campus environment at Dickinson College.
How do you support and guide your Posse Scholars in their academic, personal, and professional endeavors?
As an administrator at Dickinson College and liaison to The Posse Foundation, I play a crucial role in supporting and guiding scholars in their academic, personal, and professional endeavors. I ensure that scholars can access tutoring services, study groups, and educational resources to help them succeed in their coursework. I organize workshops and seminars on time management, study skills, and research techniques to enhance their academic performance. Furthermore, I facilitate connections between Posse Scholars and faculty members, encouraging mentorship and opportunities for research collaboration. I promote participation in wellness programs that address mental health, stress management, and overall well-being. I help build a strong sense of community among Posse Scholars by organizing social events, peer support groups, and team-building activities. In personal crises, I provide support by connecting scholars with the Dickinson College Wellness Center and other support systems as needed. In terms of advocacy and outreach, I advocate for the needs and interests of Posse Scholars within the college administration to ensure they receive the necessary support and resources. I work with local organizations and businesses to create additional opportunities for Posse Scholars through internships, community service, and employment. I also regularly communicate with The Posse Foundation to stay informed about best practices, share success stories, and ensure alignment with their mission and goals. By providing comprehensive support across these areas, I strive to create an environment where Posse Scholars can thrive academically, personally, and professionally during their time at Dickinson College and beyond.
How can a relationship with the Los Angeles Library enrich the Posse Program?
A relationship with the Los Angeles Public Library can significantly enrich the experience of Dickinson College Posse Scholars by giving them access to many resources and opportunities. The library's extensive collection of books, digital media, and research databases can supplement scholar's academic studies, offering additional materials for coursework and research projects. Moreover, the library's various programs, including workshops, lectures, and cultural events, can enhance personal and professional development. By engaging with these resources, scholars can expand their knowledge, develop new skills, and connect with a broader intellectual and artistic community. Developing a relationship could also provide internships and community service opportunities, allowing scholars to gain valuable experience and contribute to the local community.
How do you think the Posse Foundation's work contributes to a more diverse and inclusive community in higher education?
The Posse Foundation's work significantly contributes to creating a more diverse and inclusive community in higher education. By identifying and supporting talented students from diverse backgrounds who traditional admissions processes might otherwise overlook, the Posse Foundation ensures that these scholars have access to top-tier educational opportunities. Including diverse perspectives enriches the academic and social environment on campus, fostering a more vibrant and dynamic community.
The Posse Foundation's emphasis on leadership, teamwork, and cross-cultural understanding helps scholars develop skills essential for thriving in a diverse society. Their comprehensive support system, including mentorship and peer networks, empowers these students to succeed academically and personally, promoting a culture of inclusion and equity within the institution. Moreover, the presence of Posse Scholars on campus challenges stereotypes. It broadens the horizons of the entire student body, encouraging all students to engage with and appreciate different cultures and viewpoints.
By actively promoting diversity and inclusion through its initiatives, the Posse Foundation plays a crucial role in shaping a higher education landscape that values and benefits from the contributions of individuals from all backgrounds. This work enhances the educational experience for all students and prepares them to be more thoughtful, inclusive, and influential leaders in a global society.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a Posse Scholar?
If you are considering becoming a Posse Scholar, it's essential to understand the commitment and embrace the program's unique support system. The rigorous selection process and the college experience will be supportive and challenging. Embrace the mentorship, peer support, and academic resources available, and build strong relationships with your Posse peers, mentors, and faculty advisors.
Be open to personal and professional growth; the educational experience will push you out of your comfort zone and help you develop as a leader. Actively participate in Posse meetings, events, and activities to benefit fully from the program. However, balance your commitments with your academic responsibilities and personal well-being, as time management and self-care are crucial for maintaining a healthy college experience.
Lastly, leverage the vast Posse network of alums and supporters for guidance and opportunities, and stay true to your values and goals throughout your journey. Remember why you chose this opportunity, and let that drive you to succeed.
The Los Angeles Public Library offers fantastic resources for teens to prepare for scholarship opportunities like Posse. Get Ready for College on LAPL Teen Web administers online test prep through the Learning Express Library, Testing & Education Reference Center, and Tutor.com. Additionally, Get Ready for College offers workshops on the college admission process across the Los Angeles library branches for students and their families.
Additional Resource Links:
Web-Resources/Education
Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center
Written by Gabriel Carrillo
