LEAF mom, Nelly, takes on the college journey with her son, Fermin.

Nelly Blas Miranda joined the LEAF familia when her son, Fermin, was awarded the LEAF Scholarship through the LEAF Center for College Success (LCCS). Nelly, born in San Lorenzo Octeyuco, a small town in Jilotepec in Mexico, and her husband, Fermin Ibarra, have three children, Fermin, Jonathan, and Mateo. 

Nelly shares that the LEAF scholarships made a significant impact on Fermín since he was having a difficult time qualifying for other scholarships. For her, it was very encouraging to see her oldest son become a first-generation college student. The parent programs through LEAF provided the necessary support to help understand the college process. Nelly shares, 

“ I knew that as a mother, it would help me because I was going to learn things in which I have no experience, such as having an adult son who was now starting college and would later transfer to the University. “

One session that stood out to Nelly was the FAFSA workshop. Understanding the FAFSA application, she says, was a lifesaver. Fermin applied and got support from the LCCS intern, Jazmin Dominguez. Nelly shares that Jasmin helped her and Fermin through the application process with patience and grace. In addition, Jazmin motivated Fermin by discussing the importance of filling out FAFSA and fulfilling other requirements. 

Nelly shares that one of the most significant changes she’s seen participating in LEAF is the motivation and encouragement Fermin has received. In addition, she could reach out ot LEAF staff at any time if any questions arise. 

She shares, “Communication is another thing that I like about this program because if I know that my student for some reason is not responding, I also receive texts, and that way, I can support him. It also helped him because he had better communication with me, creating that connection through the program. LEAF includes us parents and the student to support them better.”