COLUMBUS, Neb. - Latinos from the Columbus-area had the opportunity to learn exactly what it takes to accomplish their goal of enrolling in college on Thursday.
Latino students from Columbus High, Lakeview and Schuyler all trotted to Central Community College in Columbus to engage Latino speakers from all across the area, who gave them ideas on how to break through and get to college.
"We tend to think that we don't have opportunities, either because we don't qualify or because they're on DACA or any reason that's why," says organizer Yesenia Peck.
Speakers with PHD's, degrees in medicine, as well as regular college grads, all came to speak with the students and motivate them to work hard in high school so they can go on do bigger things afterwards.
"They come and tell their experience on what it took to come and get their degrees," says Peck."
The event was a partnership with CCC, the Columbus Chamber and NPPD, where Peck is employed.
Chamber director K.C. Belitz says that they made the partnership because he wants Columbus to be a place where Latinos can engage in their community.
"These kids need to know that Columbus wants them here and they need to be given the skills and the motivation and the inspiration to maximize those skills," says Belitz.
Peck hopes the kids leave the event with a better idea on what it takes to reach their goals.
"Whatever happened in their lives, there are ways to get educated," says Peck.
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