Empowering First-Generation Students

Our “Success Stories” are a testament to the incredible achievements of first-generation, low-income students who have courageously navigated the confusing and challenging U.S. college application process with Road to Uni’s support.

Their successes highlight the strength that comes from pushing beyond systemic limitations and the transformative impact of access to information, knowledge and unwavering support.

Our Success Stories

Kyle Lambert

From Jamaica to Stanford

Meet Kyle Lambert, a remarkable young individual whose determination and resilience have led him to a future brimming with possibilities. Hailing from Queens, NY, Kyle’s path to success was not without challenges. Having arrived in the US from Jamaica just two years before applying to college, he found…

Nicole Carrilo

Journey to Columbia University

Meet Nicole Carrilo, an extraordinary young scholar whose journey to Columbia University showcases the power of guidance and determination in achieving one’s dreams. As a first-generation student in the US, Nicole faced the challenge of navigating the unfamiliar waters of the college application…

Tanzira Rashid

Pioneering change at RPI

Meet Tanzira Rashid, a trailblazing scholar who defied stereotypes and shattered barriers on her journey to success. Hailing from NYC, Tanzira’s path was far from conventional. As a first-generation student from a lower-income Bengali family, she faced unique challenges in pursuing her dreams…

Kyle Lambert

From Jamaica to Stanford

Meet Kyle Lambert, a remarkable young individual whose determination and resilience have led him to a future brimming with possibilities. Hailing from Queens, NY, Kyle’s path to success was not without challenges. Having arrived in the US from Jamaica just two years before applying to college, he found himself facing the daunting college application process, which was completely unfamiliar territory for him as a first-generation student from a low-income family.

Determined to turn his dreams into reality, Kyle sought guidance from Road to Uni, which is dedicated to empowering students like him. Using our MVP version of our program, Kyle had the opportunity to ask crucial questions and gain insights through Instagram, a platform that became his bridge to knowledge and support.

Under RTU’s mentorship, Kyle learned how to stand out to colleges and national scholarships. His tenacity and hard work bore fruit as he received acceptance offers from almost all the Ivy League colleges, a testament to the strength of his application and personal story. Additionally, he achieved remarkable success by securing prestigious scholarships like the Gates Scholarship, Coca-Cola scholarship, Questbridge National College Match, Jack Kent Cooke, and more.

Today, Kyle is a shining example of what resilience and the right support can accomplish. He has embarked on a transformative educational journey at Stanford University, where he continues to thrive academically and personally.

Kyle’s success story epitomizes Road to Uni’s mission – to demystify the college application process and provide equal opportunities to students from all walks of life. We take immense pride in celebrating Kyle’s accomplishments and recognize that his journey serves as a beacon of home for countless other aspiring scholars.

Year after year, Road to Uni remains committed to empowering students and ensuring that they have the tools and knowledge necessary to reach for the stars and build a better future for themselves and their communities.

Nicole Carrilo

Journey to Columbia University

Meet Nicole Carrilo, an extraordinary young scholar whose journey to Columbia University showcases the power of guidance and determination in achieving one’s dreams. As a first-generation student in the US, Nicole faced the challenge of navigating the unfamiliar waters of the college application process.

Nicole’s parents, originally from Peru, provided unwavering support and love, but they were unfamiliar with the intricacies of the American higher education system. Recognizing the need for guidance, Nicole sought the assistance of Road to Uni, which is dedicated to empowering first-generation students like her.

With the support of RTU’s resources, Nicole gained invaluable insights into the college application process. Her commitment and hard work, combined with the knowledge she acquired, positioned her for success.

With determination in her heart, Nicole crafted a compelling application that showcased her unique journey and aspirations. Her academic achievements and personal story resonated with the admissions committees at prestigious institutions, and she ultimately secured her place at Columbia University.

Today, Nicole stands tall as a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of access to knowledge. At Columbia, she is thriving academically and immersing herself in a diverse and enriching learning environment.

Nicole’s journey inspires us all to embrace the opportunities that education offers and reaffirms our commitment to empowering students from diverse backgrounds. Road to Uni remains dedicated to illuminating the path to success for aspiring scholars like Nicole, ensuring that dreams are not limited by circumstances but nurtured with knowledge and support.

Tanzira Rashid

Pioneering Change at RPI

Meet Tanzira Rashid, a trailblazing scholar who defied stereotypes and shattered barriers on her journey to success. Hailing from NYC, Tanzira’s path was far from conventional. As a first-generation student from a lower-income Bengali family, she faced unique challenges in pursuing her dreams.

Growing up, Tanzira encountered traditional expectations that limited success to medical careers. However, her passion lay in a different direction – she found joy in working with her hands and exploring the world of construction. High school revealed her true calling as she was taught to wire up switched and light fixtures, igniting a spark that would shape her future.

Undeterred by societal norms, Tanzira knew that she needed to find a college that nurtured her aspirations and encouraged her to break gender stereotypes. That’s when she found Road to Uni (RTU), a beacon of support that armed her with confidence to challenge conventions and discover her own path.

RTU’s guidance became the catalyst for her success. They reaffirmed her goals, nurtured her passions, and helped her navigate the college application process. Through unwavering support. Tanzira found her way to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), a place that embraced her dreams and celebrated her unique journey.

As Tanzira continues to shine at RPI, she is breaking barriers and inspiring others to follow their hearts, regardless of societal expectations. Her journey embodies the spirit of Road to Uni – nurturing dreams and empowering first-generation students from diverse backgrounds to triumph over adversity.

Tanzira’s success story is a testament to the transformative impact of education and the empowerment that comes from embracing one’s true calling. Road to Uni provided her the support she needed to soar, and she emerged as a role model for those seeking to carve their own path.