Denise says "Thank You!"
Hello, 
My name is Denise Merino Cavero and I am from Avenal, California.
Growing up, the place I called home would change as my parents followed the harvest of different coastal fruits.
My parents' hard work ethic and dedication to providing us with a life filled with opportunity and education motivated me to pursue a higher education.
I discovered my true passion when I learned to use my voice to represent my Mexican immigrant parents, who were afraid and unaccustomed to life in the United States.
Through van rides to Sacramento or garage meetings with the citizens of Avenal, I gained exposure to fighting against the Environmental Racism that I found in my community.
That is where my career goals lie. Thanks to the support from my family, friends, and community, I matched with Yale University on a full-ride scholarship through the Questbridge Organization.
I plan to obtain my undergraduate degree in Political Science or Ethnicity, Race, & Migration to pursue a Master’s in Public Administration or law school to become an immigration lawyer.
Although my path is bound to change, I dream of walking down the streets of the place I call home with an education that will help protect the voices of future generations and help them live a life full of hope, empowerment, and change.
This scholarship is helping me complete my wildest dreams. A year ago, I could not have imagined I would be attending a university across the country, much less afford the hidden costs associated with attendance.
The Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship will ease the burden of travel, move-in, and technology expenses from my parents. Attending an out-of-state college means more than textbooks and purchasing winter clothes. The help this scholarship gives me cannot be understated.
Already, I have connected with a Yale alumni through Vineyard Team’s network. We bonded over the residential colleges and shared our educational experiences.
I will never forget the help the Vineyard Team has provided me as I traverse this new chapter of my life.
Once again, thank you for the support and opportunity.
If you'd like to support scholars like Denise, you can make gift online.
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