Godfrey-Lee — Active in Spanish club, chess club, student council and Grand Valley State University’s TRIO Upward Bound Math Science – Wyoming program, rising Lee High School senior Emilio Ayala-Cano is known at Lee High School for his academic success and friendly personality.
These qualities helped him get a jumpstart on his journey to college post-graduation as one of fewer than 4,000 high school juniors selected to participate in the QuestBridge College Prep Scholar program. According to the website, through QuestBridge, high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds can apply for free for early admission and a full four-year scholarship at 55 colleges that partner with the organization.
Emilio decided to apply after chemistry teacher, Brian McKanna, told his class about the program.
The application process included a 400-word essay and list of extracurriculars and job experiences, Emilio said, but he did not think his submission would stand out from all the applicants across the country.
“It seemed like something for people who are really good at school, but I learned they target kids who have financial need, so I talked about how I work to help support my family in my application,” he said.
Emilio’s parents met in Mexico and immigrated to the U.S. in their early 20s. He credits his dad for support in all his academic and extracurricular endeavors.
“My dad was close to my age when he came to this country with nothing and built a life for me and my siblings. I can’t imagine coming to a brand new place with nothing,” Emilio said. “He inspires me because he never gave up, or I wouldn’t be here.”
To his surprise, Emilio learned he had been accepted to the program in April, when alongside one of his best friends, he decided to open an email from QuestBridge at 11:11 a.m., which is considered by some to be a lucky time of day.
Acceptance to the program also included an invitation to an exclusive National College Admissions Conference at Northwestern University on June 28, hosted by QuestBridge and other college partners. The conference offers in-depth insight into applying for college, scholarships and financial aid for students to make their goals a reality.
“I’m hoping to go into civil engineering because it has to do with math and science. I’ve heard they build bridges and big buildings, not just sit at a desk all day.” he said. “I’m between that and the medical field.”
Emilio said University of Michigan is currently his top college choice, but based on the program’s connections, he is also keeping an open mind to Ivy League schools.
Lee High School science teacher Brian McKanna said he believes his students can succeed at any school “if they put in the effort and have belief.”
“In the past, our students did not apply to colleges like the University of Michigan because they felt like they weren’t ‘good enough’ to get in and succeed,” McKanna said. “Over the past few years, we have sent five or more students to Michigan and they have been extremely successful.”
To help change students’ mindsets, McKanna said someone like Emilio has to take the first step outside of their community and comfort zone.
“I tell the kids not to tell themselves what they can’t do, give it a try and find out for yourself because you might be pleasantly surprised,” he said. “I have belief in Emilio and know he will be successful wherever he goes.”
Proud of His Past, Present and Future
Lee High School’s Legendary Leaders and Spanish club advisor Katherine Merriott described Emilo as a “hardworking and very involved student.”
“Emilio was nominated and selected to be one of our coordinator students for Legendary Leaders next year because of his ability to collaborate with others and his dedication to our school community,” she said. “I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes.”
Amidst his busy schedule, Emilio and his friend Ulises Lopez-Solis also found time to start an after-school study group to help their peers prepare for the SAT test. They found study materials and practice tests online, with assistance from McKanna.
“At first, we only had two other students show up, but then we had a meeting where 15 students showed up,” Emilio said.
When he’s not in school or participating in club obligations, Emilio works at Menards, where he is able to adjust his schedule to maintain his attendance across the board.
He said he wouldn’t be where he is today without the support of his community, his teachers, advisors and TRIO interim director, Jullianie Vazquez.
“I’m proud of the things I have done so far and I want to do more,” Emilio said. “I want to start a nonprofit and raise money to help people who can’t afford healthcare or are in debt and refuse care. I don’t think that’s right and people shouldn’t have to deal with that.”
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