Irene Santiago

Irene SantiagoNew York University
Class of 2005
Biology
Hometown: Mount Vernon, NY

The Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) has enabled me to accomplish a number of my goals. HEOP helped me both gain admission to and remain a student at New York University (NYU). HEOP provides me with the extra help and tutoring I need to attain good grades. Most importantly, the financial support has helped me afford my education.

Without the help of HEOP, I would not be able to attend such a prestigious university. While I earned high grades in high school school, my score on the Standardized Aptitude Test was not up to par. Because my SAT grade would not qualify me for general admission into NYU, my application was referred to the HEOP department.

The financial assistance I receive through HEOP helps cover some of my tuition. I also receive a stipend for books during the academic year. This is a tremendous help, since my mom cannot afford to give me the money I need for school supplies.

As a HEOP student, I am required to attend workshops for all my major classes. I have found these workshops, particularlly the biology one, useful. The workshops give me a chance to speak with faculty about any problems that I may face or ask any questions that I have about a particular subject.

The staff and faculty at the HEOP office have become close friends and allies. They are always eager to help and offer advice about academic and personal issues. I have come to rely heavily on them. Through HEOP, I have forged invaluable friendships that I hope will continue into the future.

HEOP has truly given me the chance of a lifetime. I will always be grateful for the opportunities that HEOP has given me. It is my hope that HEOP will be there to assist students in the years to come.