PUENTE Learning Center – Delivering Quality Education for Lifelong Achievement

During her undergraduate studies at UC Davis, Nelly Escalante wrestled with what many first-generation college students encounter: imposter syndrome.

Often one of the only Latina students in her class, Escalante found herself grappling with feelings of inadequacy and a sense of not truly belonging. Until she found the support and confidence she needed at PUENTE Learning Center. 

Since she was a freshman in high school, Escalante, now 22, has participated in PUENTE’s College and Career Program, which equips low-income youth of color with the tools and support they need to be successful in college and obtain a competitive degree. The program, which makes a 10-year commitment to all participating students, includes college readiness classes, leadership training, scholarships, case management, and mentorship.  

“With PUENTE, I always felt I had a community I could reach out to who would understand where I was coming from,” Escalante says.

Since 1985, PUENTE Learning Center has been a community hub located in the heart of Boyle Heights, a largely immigrant community east of downtown Los Angeles. Each year, 2,000 children, teenagers, and adults come to PUENTE to receive training to set them up for success in their educational and career pathways. 

During the last four years, PUENTE has grown its College and Career Program by 161%  Ninety-seven percent of high school seniors who took part in the program enrolled in college. 

“It’s not enough just to make sure young people get out of high school, because it’s that post-secondary degree – associate, bachelor’s, master’s or PhD –  that will dramatically amplify their choices and enhance their lifetime earnings,” Jerome Greening, PUENTE’s CEO, says.

PUENTE, Spanish for bridge, grabs the opportunities that may seem out of reach and makes them possible. In addition to its college program, PUENTE also offers its community a preschool, an elementary school, career guidance and preparation, and adult education and workforce development classes. 

Escalante, the daughter of immigrant parents from Mexico and El Salvador who was raised in Boyle Heights, graduated in June with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Medical Microbiology. In the fall, she will begin her pursuit of a PhD in Immunity, Microbes, and Molecular Pathogenesis at UCLA. Before attending UC Davis, Escalante never even considered going to graduate school. But with PUENTE’s mentorship, support, and guidance, she now hopes to perform research for a government agency where she can investigate emerging pathogens and make a positive impact in the world. 

“During college, PUENTE was like a little piece of home that would keep me motivated every time we met. It has given me hope that no matter where I go, I will have a community of people that truly care for my success and well-being,” Escalante says.