An image of Diana holding her award at the Words Alive Westreich Scholarship Ceremony.
Diana is a student at San Diego City College and has been a part of the Words Alive Westreich Sscholarship for four years. Her long-term goal is to become an English teacher to help students who have had trauma in their life by dismantling barriers to educational success. She is a mother of two children, a writer, and all-around creative person. Diana works at FamilyHealth at City College providing information to students on the mental health services available on campus.
“Diana is a hardworking woman. I am always so impressed with how graciously she juggles all her responsibilities.”
-Susan Arias, Diana’s Mentor
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.
An image of Diana with her family at the 2018 Words Alive Westreich Scholarship Award Ceremony.
Let’s hear more from Diana!
Name: Diana Gonzalez-Soto
Age: 25
College: San Diego City College
Area of Study: English Literature
High School: Lindsay Community School
Mentor: Susan Arias
How did you first get involved with Words Alive?
I first got involved with Words Alive during my youth in Monarch and later reconnected with them again at Lindsay Community School.
How has your experience with Words Alive affected you?
Words Alive has affected my life positively. Since joining the scholarship program, I have become more self-aware of what my goals are. I’ve also learned problem solving and perseverance.
What have you accomplished this year that you are most proud of?
Becoming a DACA student, continuing another year at City College, and becoming a Price Scholarship recipient.
Tell us about your favorite college memory.
My favorite memory is when I participated in a May Day rally for worker's rights.
What are you reading lately?
The Alchemist and books by the author Bell Hooks.