We’d like to introduce you to two Gateway College and Career Academy graduates, Alisha Foster ‘21 and Laura Lord ‘17. Both Alisha and Laura chose the same day as their most favorite memory of their time at GCCA, which we think shows just what a wonderful community we have here. Find out a little more about these graduates and how they are launching exciting new career paths thanks to the unwavering support and guidance from staff at Gateway.
Alisha Foster, Class of 2021
When and why did you attend Gateway?
I chose to attend Gateway because it gave me the opportunity to earn college credit while working towards my high school diploma.
What is your favorite memory as a Gateway student?
My favorite memory from GCCA is my first day of school because everyone was so nice to me.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teacher is Ms. Puente because she’s really cool and understanding.
How did attending GCCA help you achieve your goals?
Gateway helped me achieve one of my biggest goals, getting accepted to UCSD for math.
What’s next for you?
I have been accepted into the mathematics programs for UCSD, UCR, and Cal Poly Pomona, and I have been put on the waitlist for UCLA and UC Berkeley. I have committed to UCSD and will be an applied mathematics major. My future career goal is to become a mathematician.
Laura Lord, Class of 2017
When and why did you attend Gateway?
I chose Gateway because I saw a chance to prove to myself that I could graduate from high school and go to college. I was in virtual high school most of my high school career, so I didn’t care enough to try. That was until I got to Gateway! I found counselors and teachers and staff who really cared about me and my educational journey!
What is your favorite memory as a Gateway student?
My favorite memory would have to be my very first day at Gateway. It was the start of a new beginning for me.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teachers were Mrs. Moring and Mrs. Loucks and Mr. Taylor. They all molded me into the person I am today! They all taught me in a way that I could understand and gave me opportunities to succeed even further than in the classroom.
How did attending GCCA help you achieve your goals?
Gateway helped me prepare by encouraging me that I could do anything I set my mind to: I can go to a university after high school and I can get a higher degree than just my high school diploma. My goal was to get my bachelor’s and/or master’s degree one day. So with the help of my amazing counselors and teachers, I went from not wanting more than an associate’s degree to wanting my BA and MA. They showed me I was worth it and that I was capable of so many things!
What’s next for you?
Because of the wonderful people at Gateway College and Career Academy, I am about to start my bachelor’s degree at the University of California, Riverside! I couldn’t have done it without you all! I want to thank each and every one of you who helped me during my time at Gateway!
About GCCA
Gateway College and Career Academy (formerly Gateway to College) is an early college public high school launched in 2004, as an answer to the growing number of students who were disconnected from their education and not on track to obtain their high school diplomas. Our highly qualified teaching and counseling staff supports and guides our students on their educational pathways, establishing a bond of trust and the motivation to make it to the finish line.
Riverside City College is an ideal partner, helping our students transition to college education via concurrent enrollment in GCCA and RCC, and giving access to all of the college’s resources and supports.You belong here!