From Upward Bound to Veterinary Dreams: Ysabel López Jimenez’s Journey
Meet Ysabel López Jimenez, a Pender Early College High School graduate and former Cape Fear Community College Upward Bound participant. Upward Bound supports first-generation students with SAT/ACT prep, college tours, and application guidance.
Ysabel joined as a rising senior, gaining the tools she needed to navigate college admissions. Now studying animal science at North Carolina A&T State University, she dreams of attending NC State’s veterinary school, specializing in exotic small animals or veterinary forensics. Upward Bound helped her stay focused and prepared for her college journey.
Learn more about her experiences and aspirations below:
Can you share a bit about your background and what made you want to join the Upward Bound program at CFCC?
At first, I joined the Upward Bound program because of a summer opportunity they were offering for college readiness and exploring Cape Fear Community College. During this time, I was a rising junior in high school and very nervous about applying to college as a first-generation student. What really made me stay active with Upward Bound was how much support I received in the areas where I was struggling, such as ACT and SAT testing, the college application process, and socializing.
Did you face any challenges on your path to enrolling in college? If so, how did you overcome them?
My challenges mainly came from lacking knowledge within the whole process, figuring out how to apply for financial aid, and balancing all my responsibilities while staying motivated. Lacking this knowledge was mainly a factor of being an immigrant since I grew up knowing different things, and so did my mother. Joining programs such as Upward Bound and others, made me realize that I had a great support system that kept me motivated, in addition to staying informed.
What was your experience like in the Upward Bound program?
My experience with Upward Bound was amazing, and what I really needed at the moment. It provided me with knowledge and a way of learning that was fun. While it was an escape from the stress of applying to college and coping, it was an experience I learned a lot from.
Which resources or opportunities in Upward Bound were most helpful to you?
Upward Bound organized various college tours that really helped me see the options I had around me and ask questions directly to the staff members and other staff from Upward Bound.
Was there a class, activity, or mentor in Upward Bound who made a big impact on you?
I remember last summer, we did an activity where we defined our strengths and discussed issues we encountered and how we overcame them. Though I was a volunteer, I decided to participate as well, and other staff members did, too. I think this activity really helped all of us realize that we are all strong in our different ways. After this activity, I felt confident and could acknowledge how much I had evolved and gone through as a person.
Are there any achievements from your time in Upward Bound that you’re especially proud of?
I am most proud of completing the program. I also successfully volunteered for the summer camp, which was sentimental to me as the summer camp is how I came across Upward Bound in the first place.
Can you tell us about the university you’re attending now and what led you to choose it?
I am currently attending North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. I applied to this school because my neighbor, a teacher in the past, brought it up to me as they are known for their studies in animal science. At first, this school really wasn’t my first choice until I decided to tour it. Seeing how proud the students were of the school, the amazing academic and personal opportunities and the resources and support they had for my area of study was how I came to the final decision of committing to this university. I am very happy with my decision and could not be more grateful for the opportunities I have been given.
What are you studying, and what do you hope to do after graduation?
I am majoring in animal science, and after I graduate, I hope to apply to veterinary school at North Carolina State University. I plan to specialize in exotic small animals or veterinary forensics. Though I have other career options, being a veterinarian remains my top priority.
How did your experience in Upward Bound and CFCC help you adjust to life at a four-year university?
Cape Fear Community College really helped me experience what college classes would be like. Because I was a student at Pender Early College High School, I had the chance to experience a college-like environment without being fully exposed to a university. Upward Bound really helped me in the ways we would review different subjects and talk about college advice. Also, some of the staff members were from the area where my college is, so I had a pretty good idea of what was around!
What advice would you give to students who are considering joining the Upward Bound program?
If you are serious about pursuing higher education or just doing well in school, Upward Bound is a great fit. The staff members are extremely friendly and helpful, as are all the activities and resources provided.
