Estefany Garcia-Olivares

She Left Everything Behind. A Scholarship Helped Her Move Forward.

When Estefany Garcia-Olivares arrived in the United States just four years ago, she brought with her something most people cannot pack into a suitcase: an unwavering drive to build a future bigger than circumstance. Born and raised in Puebla, Mexico, Estefany came to this country as a high school student, leaving behind her mother, siblings and the world she knew — all for the chance at a higher education her family had not been able to access.

The English language was unfamiliar, the U.S. educational system was unknown and the distance from her family was real. However, Estefany made a strategic decision: she changed her Netflix to English, as well as her phone settings and committed to English immersion. “I think right now I’m trying to do better,” she said. “I need to take on different challenges.” It was a mindset she carried with her to Río Hondo College.

The College was a natural fit. It gave her the opportunity to pursue higher education close to home while exploring her academic and career interests. From the start, it was a place where she felt supported, welcomed and encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. Before her first semester even began, Estefany participated in the College’s Summer Bridge program, taking an early step toward building the academic foundation she would rely on throughout her time on campus.

As a first-generation college student and business administration major, she plunged into campus life. She joined the College Corps program, where she channeled her energy into community service, leadership development and social media production. This work sharpened both her professional skills and her sense of purpose. “The program helped me become more confident and develop stronger communication skills,” she said. “I realized it’s not just about you. There are people out there who need help, and when you see the impact you’re making, it feels different.”

Her educational commitment came at a price. To finance her education and personal expenses, Estefany worked at Five Below earning minimum wage with hours that conflicted directly with her academic schedule. “I was struggling to keep my job and my academics,” she said. “But I needed to earn money.” She did both, refusing to let go of either.

On May 8, that sacrifice was recognized. Estefany was among the 52 students honored at the Río Hondo College Foundation Scholarship Reception where she received a scholarship — a moment she describes as “an incredible honor and a reminder that my hard work has been recognized.” The scholarship relieved some of that financial pressure, allowing her to put more of herself into her academics. She will transfer to Cal Poly Pomona this fall to pursue her bachelor’s degree in business administration.

Looking ahead, she envisions a career in marketing — specifically in social media, event planning and the fashion industry. “I’m passionate about creative communication and helping organizations connect with their communities,” she said. Her goal is to one day bring those skills back to Mexico and create impact in the community she came from.

To the donors who made her scholarship possible, Estefany’s message is direct: “Your generosity is more than financial support — it gives students encouragement, confidence and opportunity to pursue their dreams. I hope to one day give back and help future students the same way you have helped me.”