Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not.
Dear Anaya's Village,
Every dream begins with a single step, but lasting success is built through perseverance and the support of a community that believes in your potential. At Anaya Scholars, we have the privilege of witnessing that transformation every day as our scholars grow into confident professionals and changemakers.
This scholar's journey is a reminder that while the road to a college degree is rarely easy, resilience, mentorship, and determination can open doors that once seemed out of reach. We hope their story inspires you as much as it continues to inspire all of us.
Today, we are sharing Rolando's story.
Sincerely,
Monica Kachru, Founder, Anaya Scholars
“I exposed myself to things I didn’t feel ready for...That’s how I learned.”
At 11 years old, Rolando and his mother made the 15-day journey from Guatemala, arriving in the US carried by his mother’s determination for a better future for him, settling in Lynn with his uncle.
Rolando spoke no English. Like many immigrant students, his early years in the US were defined by adaptation and survival. Rolando surrounded himself with neighbors and peers who helped him learn English and navigate unfamiliar systems while he slowly built confidence in himself.
College was never part of the original plan. He attended Lynn Vocational Technical Institute and studied plumbing, expecting to enter the trades after graduation.
Everything changed when a friend encouraged him to join La Vida Scholars. La Vida Scholars suggested Rolando apply for the Anaya Scholars, where he was awarded the Anaya Tipnis Foundation scholarship.
Through Anaya, he received mentorship that changed the course of his college experience. He was paired with Abigail and Bill. Two relationships that were originally intended to last one year but continue to this day.
Toward the end of his freshman year at Lehigh University, Rolando realized he had not been fully prepared for the rigor and pace of college life and was considering dropping out. He discussed his situation with his mentors.
He reflects, “Abigail provided guidance on studying tips, time management and how to access campus resources. For four years, Abigail was a key support, listening and celebrating my achievements.” She carefully listened and encouraged him to give it another chance.
Bill constantly checked in on Rolando’s academic progress, and provided tips on how to improve in low-performance areas and encouraged him to take advantage of campus resources.
Rolando shares, “He checked in monthly for all 4 years which motivated me to do my best because I was excited to share my progress with him. Bill was always proud of my campus involvement and academic progress. He taught me how to not limit myself and how to stand out professionally by showing initiative, building relationships, dressing appropriately and presenting myself confidently”.
Abigail and Bill helped him prepare résumés, practice interviewing, apply for internships, and develop professional skills, things that many students take for granted. He learned about financial literacy, networking, leadership, and career readiness that gave him tools to succeed after graduation.
Anaya helped open doors professionally as well. During his sophomore year, he secured an internship with Ernst & Young. The internship led to a return offer and eventually a full-time position after graduation.
Despite insecurities about his English and accent, he pursued leadership positions, joined student organizations, and helped establish the Associations of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA), a national organization focused on supporting students through college and accessing professional opportunities.
“I exposed myself to things I didn’t feel ready for,” he said. “That’s how I learned.”
On May 17th, 2026, Rolando graduated from Lehigh University with dual degrees in accounting and finance.
“My mom’s dream was for me to be the first to attend college,” he said. “It’s a huge accomplishment for someone who didn’t have the same resources or opportunities growing up. As a first-generation immigrant scholar, I’m honored that I’ve made my family so proud.”
Rolando’s journey reflects the deeper impact of the Anaya Program - empowering young immigrant scholars to envision futures they once believed to be out of reach.
Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not.
We exist to close that gap.
- Anaya Scholars
