NCPA scholars fulfill many academic and social requirements for the program. However, NCPA doesn’t just have an effect on the scholars—the benefits of what the scholars are experiencing and learning reach their families, too.
Vanessa Mosqueda is a junior at Grand Island Senior High School and the oldest of five siblings. Her parents have been very supportive and interested in the topics she learns about through NCPA, such as peer pressure, relationships and managing stress.
"They like how I am becoming informed because there was only so much that they learned since they only finished the 6th grade," she explained. "My family also loves the fact that once I graduate, I will get help with college."
Her parents work hard; her father at a meatpacking plant and her mother does janitorial work—and the work is hard on their bodies. She says they want her to go further in life.
Vanessa is considering a career in the medical field or law. “I really like little kids and when I see my pediatrician working, she inspires me and makes me want to be like her one day.”
Her family also says she is good at getting into discussions, bringing up topics and convincing the other person of her point, so she thinks about becoming a lawyer.
For now, she concentrates on high school. In addition to NCPA, she plays the violin in the orchestra and has a passion for art. She credits the NCPA seminars about self-care with helping her manage her activities.
"School is very hard, but I learned that I shouldn’t stress as hard as I do because that can trigger more problems. If I just take care of myself, things will turn out ok."
It’s not all work and stress, though. In NCPA, she enjoys getting to know more people, sharing experiences and the events.
"There’s a lot of benefits to it. You get help and support. Everyone’s so nice. You get to meet new people and have new experiences. And at the end, you get that scholarship. I also love the summer camps; they’re very fun."
