CAPping off a successful year
The College Awareness Program (CAP) celebrated a successful year Friday as Fremont Ross high-schoolers heard inspiring stories of overcoming obstacles and making a difference from award-winning author Victor Villasenor.
Villasenor, raised in a barrio of Carlsbad, Calif., spoke of difficulties in school as a young child because he spoke only his native Spanish. “I had a terrible time in school,” he told the students. I flunked third grade twice and dropped out of school.”
A teacher in seventh grade “set me on fire and really got me started” on the path of learning. Reflecting on the famed Emerson quote, he told the students that when they bring out their inner possibilities, miracles happen.
“Everyone here has inside them a voice, a subconscious that makes you incredible,” he said. He encouraged the students to unleash their inner genius, and by doing so, they can create miracles.
“You need to plant your seeds on this earth to make a difference.”
Villasenor’s success is evidenced by his body of literary work, including his first novel, Macho!, and his national bestseller, Rain of Gold, which tells his family’s story. He also has written a number of nonfiction books and a collection of short stories designed to inspire young people. He also wrote the screenplay for The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez. He speaks frequently on such universal themes as pride in heritage, the strength of the family, world peace and the power of the written word.Heidelberg received grant funding to create the CAP program, a collaboration among Heidelberg, Terra Community College, Fremont City Schools and the African American Club of Fremont. Its aim is to increase access to college for minority students, demonstrate for them what the college experience is like, and help them prepare for college success.
Some 25 students who completed the CAP program will be selected for a summer enrichment program on Heidelberg’s campus. They’ll have the opportunity to live on campus for a week, take academic courses, and participate in activities and social and cultural events. The students must apply for the program by writing an essay and completing an information form.
Posted on May 5, 2008