"The Words Alive program has been my support system personally and academically. I am extremely thankful for all the people who are part of the staff.." -- Zaphire Alonso Duarte, Words Alive Westreich Scholar
A picture of Zaphire at her graduation from San Diego City College.
The Words Alive Westreich Scholarship Program awards scholarships to participants in the Words Alive Adolescent Book Group to support them in their pursuit of higher education at the college or vocational level. Unlike other scholarship programs, which typically fund only tuition, books and educational supplies, each recipient is eligible to receive funds to cover the cost of rent, food, childcare, clothing, travel and other living expenses. Additionally, the program matches each recipient with a mentor. Student and mentor meet regularly throughout the school year, and the mentors provide guidance, direction, and often, a shoulder to lean on.
In the past month, we have seen three of our scholarship students, Domminiece Willis, Zaphire Alonso Duarte, and Lexi Martinez, graduate from community college with associate's degrees. All three students graduated on May 25, 2018, Domminiece from Southwestern College and Zaphire and Lexi from City College.
Words Alive is thrilled to have been a part of the journey towards success for all of these wonderful students. We are so proud of all of them; they embody what it means to persevere and thrive.
We interviewed Zaphire Alonso Duarte to learn more about her college experience and her experience with the Words Alive Westreich Scholarship Program.
Read on:
A picture of Zaphire with her mentor, Tammy Greenwood, at Zaphire's graduation from San Diego City College.
Name: Zaphire Alonso Duarte
Age: 22
College: San Diego City College (will be attending San Diego State University in Fall 2018)
Degree (with area of study): Social Work
High School: Monarch School
Mentor: Tammy Greenwood
1. When were you first introduced to Words Alive?
I started being involved in Words Alive Adolescent Book Group during high school, since I was in 11th grade. I learned a lot of different books, and that opened me up to read more books. After high school in 2014, Words Alive has been my support system.
2. How has your experience with Words Alive affected you?
Words Alive has helped me more than just financially. The Words Alive program has been my support system personally and academically. I am extremely thankful for all the people who are part of the staff, they are the best in always being on top of our things.
3. What have you accomplished this year that you are most proud of?
I have graduated from San Diego City College after four years, and will be transferring to San Diego State University.
4. Tell us about your favorite college memory.
My favorite college memory was being able to have great moments with my classmates, for example take time out of class to go to the beach or to the movies.