Growing up, Juan’s family didn’t have the resources to help him pay for college. He worked two jobs through high school, saving for tuition, but was still worried he wouldn’t be able to afford an education. That’s when a high school guidance counselor told him about Questa.
He applied, and was accepted into the program.
“I think I probably cried, because it was June and school was coming up. It was the greatest feeling in the world to be able to feel that I could breathe.”
Now, Juan is a nursing student at the University of St. Francis. He says Questa has made a difference in his career beyond educational support. Last summer, Questa connected him with an internship at the City of Fort Wayne, where he met civic and industry leaders and spent time with a community of mentors.
After graduation, Juan plans to stay in Fort Wayne and work in area hospitals. He said he believes it’s important to give back to the city that he loves.
“We have to put diverse people in professional careers to be able to grow together,” Juan said. “I’m very thankful to Questa for believing in me and supporting me.”