Walk Alongside a Dream: How Mentors and Donors at POE Transform Lives

Pedro Hernández-Ramos

Imagine being the first in your family to navigate the complexities of college life. Now, add the challenges of being an undocumented immigrant or lacking a support system to guide you through financial planning, academic hurdles, or even practical life skills like budgeting. For many first-generation college students, this isn't just a hypothetical scenario—it's their everyday reality. But thanks to mentors like Pedro Hernández-Ramos, these students are not alone.

Pedro, a dedicated mentor with the POE program, has made it his mission to help first-generation college students overcome barriers and achieve their dreams. His journey as a mentor began with a simple invitation, but it quickly turned into a deeply rewarding commitment. Through mentorship, Pedro has been able to provide invaluable guidance to students, including one whose mother expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unbiased support her child received during their college years.

For Pedro, mentorship is about showing up. “You're not there to solve every problem,” he says. “You're there to walk alongside them, to celebrate their wins and help them figure out the tough stuff.” He remembers time spent with a mentee who needed a bank account to accept the scholarship. They worked through the necessary steps together, including a trip to the Mexican Consulate in San José, managing all the complexities, and with perseverance and determination, they accomplished what they needed, with his mentee gaining a little more confidence, too.

These aren't just academic lessons; they're life-changing moments that demonstrate the profound impact of mentorship. But mentorship is only part of the equation. Pedro emphasized the unique approach of the POE program, which combines financial aid with mentorship to address both immediate and long-term challenges. “Scholarships are important, but they're not enough on their own,” Pedro says. “When you pair financial support with guidance, you give students the tools to thrive—not just survive.”

If you've ever wondered how to make a meaningful difference in someone's life, consider becoming a mentor or donor for POE. As Pedro puts it, “Even small actions—like teaching budgeting skills or offering career advice—can have a ripple effect on a student's future.” He adds, “Helping first-gen students isn’t just a nice thing to do—it’s an investment in the next generation of leaders.”

Pedro wants everyone to know: If you’ve ever thought about mentoring, there’s no better time than now. These students don’t need superheroes—they need someone who cares enough to show up and make a difference. Whether it’s offering guidance, sharing life skills, or simply being a steady presence, your support can change a student’s future. Ready to take the first step? Join POE today and help transform a life.