Today, Explained Planting dreams
Jun 11, 2019
Erica Alfaro, a first-generation college graduate who overcame immense challenges from her background as a migrant farm worker, shares her inspiring journey. She highlights her struggles with teenage pregnancy and domestic abuse while pursuing her master's degree. Wil Del Pilar, who champions policies for low-income and minority students, stresses the need for colleges to better support first-generation students like Erica. Their conversation touches on the power of personal stories and the systemic hurdles that these students face in higher education.
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Viral Graduation Photos
- Erica Alfaro, a recent master's graduate, shared her viral graduation photos.
- The photos were taken in the fruit fields with her parents, honoring their sacrifices.
Parents' Story
- Alfaro's parents are immigrant farmworkers with no formal education.
- They came to the US for a better life and education for their children.
Crossing the Border for School
- Alfaro crossed the US-Mexico border daily to attend school in California as a child.
- Many of her classmates shared similar experiences.