Three local women share their stories of perseverance, pride, and possibility
The First to Go: A New Path Forward
Monterey County is home to 24 school districts that educate nearly 78,000 students each year. For some graduates, college is the natural next step—but for many, it’s a milestone no one in their family has reached before.
First-generation college students often navigate the unknown, balancing high expectations with limited guidance. They’re breaking cycles, creating opportunities, and carrying the hopes of their families and communities on their shoulders.
As a child of immigrant parents myself, I understand the weight of being “the first.” It takes courage, support, and an entire community of mentors to take that leap. In conversations with three local women—Valine (Val) Moreno Barr, Ammy Sanchez, and Julissa Preciado—I found a shared story of determination, gratitude, and resilience that defines the first-generation college experience.
Valine (Val) Moreno Barr: Inspired by Community
A Seaside High School graduate (2004), Valine Moreno Barr was the first in her family to attend college, earning degrees from UC Berkeley (2008) and UC San Diego (2014), with National Board Certification (NBCT) in 2024.
Val credits a network of inspiring mentors from her middle school years at Los Arboles Middle School:
“My teachers and principal were some of the most influential people in my life. They took us on field trips, encouraged us with positivity, and showed us unconditional love. They helped me believe I could fly.”
Her decision to attend college was not born in high school—it was cultivated by her community in Marina, teachers who believed in her, and family members who reminded her to “never forget where you came from.”
Today, Val serves as an educator herself, mentoring students and encouraging them to see college not as an unreachable dream, but as a path within their grasp.
Ammy Sanchez: Redefining College as a Personal Journey
Ammy Sanchez, a Greenfield High School graduate (2017) and senior at San Jose State University, shares a slightly different perspective.
“College wasn’t always a dream—it was a duty. It felt like a box I had to check because of my family’s sacrifices,” Ammy explains. “Over time, though, I’ve started reclaiming the experience as something for me—part of becoming who I want to be.”
Ammy described the heavy pressure of representing her family:
“I carried an invisible load of responsibility. If I failed, I felt like I’d let everyone down. I had to learn that asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s strength.”
Her words resonate with many first-generation students who struggle with self-doubt, limited guidance, and the emotional toll of high expectations. For Ammy, learning to advocate for herself and accept support became key to her success.
Julissa Preciado: Turning Sacrifice into Strength
Julissa Preciado, a Salinas High School graduate (2020), earned her Bachelor of Science in Wine and Viticultureat Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and recently began her Master of Science in Agriculture with a concentration in Enology.
For Julissa, college has always been about honoring her family’s sacrifices:
“I feel indebted. My parents and grandparents worked so hard for me to be here. Every experience feels like a privilege—and a responsibility.”
She acknowledges that the pressure to succeed can lead to burnout:
“I was in survival mode, balancing academics and finances. I realized therapy was a healthy way to cope and find balance.”
Financially, Julissa’s family and scholarships made a difference. She received the Rick and Tonya Antle Fund Scholarship during her senior year and continues to pursue grants for graduate school.
Like Val and Ammy, Julissa emphasizes gratitude, perseverance, and the importance of emotional support.
Common Ground: Pressure, Pride, and Perseverance
All three women faced emotional and academic challenges—but found motivation in community, mentors, and faith in their abilities. Their experiences show that being first-generation means more than academic achievement; it’s about rewriting family history and creating opportunities for those who follow.
Their advice for future first-generation college students:
- Be your own advocate. Speak up and seek help when you need it.
- Find mentors. Build a support network of teachers, advisors, and peers.
- Apply for scholarships and grants. Local resources can make a huge difference.
- Prioritize balance. Take care of your mental and physical health.
- Be proud of your journey. Every step forward is a victory.
Moving Forward
The stories of Val, Ammy, and Julissa illustrate what it means to push boundaries, redefine success, and inspire others to follow. Their journeys remind us that the path to higher education is rarely linear—but with resilience, community, and hope, it’s one that can lead to lasting change.
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