Patty Ocampo Speech Great Expectations 2017

Parent’s Viewpoint – LEAP for Education

Speech delivered by Patty Ocampo at Great Expectations on 4/4/17

My name is Patty Ocampo, and I’m here tonight with my son Carlos-Daniel to talk about my wonderful experience with LEAP for Education’s College Success Program. I came to this beautiful country from Costa Rica looking for better opportunities for myself and my 3 kids.

As a single mom, this program has been a great relief for me because it helps me pay attention to everything I need to do to best help my son. I have attended every parent meeting. They are all clear and informative; I leave knowing everything that I need to help him.

My oldest daughter graduated last year from college. However, when she was applying to colleges, things were really hard for us. Trying to fill out all the applications, scholarships, visiting different colleges, was all too crazy and a lot of stress. We didn’t know what to do or how to find the easiest or best way to get everything ready. It was a hard experience.

But with my son, Carlos-Daniel, things were different. One day he came home with some papers and info about a “College Success Program”. In the beginning, we couldn’t believe how easy the program made applying to college sound. It seemed too good to be true.

We decided to attend the first meeting and learn about the program. I couldn’t believe that it was all true. Over the last 2 years, I have developed a bond with all the staff, especially with Betty and Molly, who have been working with my son. With their help, they were ahead of all the dates and deadlines. They explained to him scholarships, and the FAFSA, which many of you know is a nightmare.

The program gets to know every student and what is best for them. This is not a one-size-fits all program. Through Carlos-Daniel’s participation in the program, I am truly relieved and confident to know my son will have a number of colleges to choose from that are a good fit for him. With all the help and support from LEAP I know he is gaining the knowledge to be a successful college student and learning to live as an independent young adult.  I want my son to continue with the program through college.  With the knowledge I have gained I know I can be more helpful as my younger daughter approaches college.  I will still want LEAP by my side but college is no longer a frightening thought.

I know that many of you in this room made this wonderful program possible.  Thank you so much.