We’re In Chicago: Jessica Gonzalez
What brought you back to Chicago Scholars?
Coming back to Chicago Scholars felt like a calling. As a Class of 2016 Scholar, I know firsthand how much the program shaped not just my college experience but my life.
I grew up in Little Village, raised by immigrant parents, and deeply inspired by my grandfather, who came to this country as a Bracero. From a young age, I learned the value of hard work, resilience, and community. Before CS, I didn’t have many mentors who looked like me or truly understood where I came from. That changed when I joined the program. It was the first time I saw people who reflected my story and showed me what was possible.
That’s why I came back, to be that person for someone else. To show Scholars they belong, that their stories matter, and that they’re capable of more than they sometimes believe. I want to be the mirror I needed at their age: someone who sees them, supports them, and reminds them they’re not alone.
As a Mentor with CS, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?
It means a lot. Mentorship has been a big part of my journey, and it still is. I have mentors who continue to guide and support me, and that’s something I try to pass on. As a second-grade teacher and Aspire Fellow working toward school leadership, I’m committed to educational equity. I want young people, especially students of color, to have mentors and educators who reflect their identities and believe in their brilliance.
Being a CS Mentor lets me live that every day. I get to show up for Scholars the way others have shown up for me. Right now, I’m applying to doctoral programs while my mentees are applying to college, and I hope that this parallel reminds them that growth never stops and that leadership can look like us. We’re learning and evolving together, and that’s what makes this work so meaningful.
What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni and a Mentor?
Honestly, it’s a full-circle moment. We come from the same place — first-gen, raised in Chicago, pushing toward something bigger. I see myself in them: the drive, the questions, the hope. I remember feeling all of that. They have so much potential, and I just want them to see that in themselves. If I can be someone who reminds them they’re not alone, that they belong, and that their story matters, then I’m doing something right. I didn’t always have that kind of support, so being able to offer it now means a lot. It’s even more meaningful knowing I’m still on my own path of growth, right alongside them.
How has your view of Chicago Scholars changed in your capacity as a Mentor?
I always knew being a Scholar was special. As a student, I saw how much CS poured into me. But now, as a Mentor, I see the full scope, how intentional the organization is about building long-term change. It’s not just about getting students to college; it’s about identity, leadership, and systemic equity. Chicago Scholars is helping first-gen students thrive and return as leaders who invest in their communities. It’s more than a program, it’s a movement rooted in purpose and real impact. I’m proud to be part of it.
What was your experience like as a Scholar?
Unforgettable. I’ll never forget the energy of Onsite — the nerves, the excitement, the moment I got my first college acceptance. Having Lupe Fiasco as the keynote speaker made it even more powerful. His words stuck with me and reminded me to stay grounded and keep pushing. What made it even more special was my cohort, students from my neighborhood, even though we went to different schools. We became friends, leaned on each other, and grew together. That day gave me confidence, clarity, and community, things I still carry with me.
What advice do you have for current Scholars?
Take full advantage of everything CS offers. Don’t underestimate the power of your story, your voice, and your background. Advocate for yourself. Ask for help. Build your village, people who believe in you and push you forward. You don’t need to have it all figured out right away. Your path is your own. And remember, success isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up, again and again.
What do you wish people knew about Chicago Scholars and the city of Chicago?
Chicago Scholars is about more than college access; it’s about transformation. It’s about helping students unlock their potential, lead with purpose, and come back to uplift others. And Chicago? It’s beautiful and complex, especially neighborhoods like Little Village. There’s so much heart, hustle, and talent. When young people are empowered to lead, the whole city benefits. CS helps make that happen.
Is there a piece of professional advice you would like to give your fellow Alumni?
Keep learning, stay connected to your “why,” and surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. And remember, just because you’ve moved forward doesn’t mean you have to move alone. Community still matters, maybe now more than ever!