Luis Gasca, a remarkable individual who graduated from Millhill’s PEERS program in 2017 and Rutgers University in 2021, has not only overcome numerous challenges but has also dedicated himself to giving back to the community that supported him. His inspiring journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact of organizations like Millhill and our PEERS program.
Luis’s story began at the age of seven when he immigrated to the United States from Colombia with his mother and sister. With only a command of Spanish, he enrolled in an English-speaking school to adapt to the new language and keep up with his peers. Through the assistance of a tutor and watching American TV shows, he quickly mastered English, setting the stage for his remarkable academic journey.
Driven by his mother’s aspirations for a better future, Luis embraced the value of education from an early age. In high school, he became involved with Millhill, and it opened doors to higher education. The PEERS program exposed him to the possibilities of college, sparking his determination to seize the opportunities presented before him. Learning about concepts like the SAT, ACT, financial aid, and scholarships felt like acquiring a new language, but his resilience and drive pushed him forward.
He secured the prestigious $40,000 Educational Testing Service Cares Scholarship, joining a select group of three Trenton High School students. The scholarship further propelled him toward his dream of higher education.
Throughout his academic journey, Luis remained committed to giving back to the community. As an active participant in Millhill Trenton PEERS, he gained confidence by performing skits on crucial topics like bullying, drugs, alcohol, and gang awareness.
Luis’s dedication to community service and academic excellence continued during his college years at Rutgers University. In addition to his studies, he engaged with organizations like America Needs You, which provided mentorship and career development opportunities for first-generation college students. This involvement led to a prestigious internship at Bank of America Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. Through networking events like the Student ALPFA annual convention, Luis secured multiple internship offers with prominent companies, solidifying his career path in finance.
His remarkable achievements as a student extended beyond the classroom. He balanced part-time work as a server, earned scholarships, and actively participated in Greek life. Serving as treasurer for the Multicultural Greek Council and La Unidad Latina Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity Inc., he exemplified leadership and commitment.
Luis’s success story serves as an inspiration to current PEERS participants and other youth in the community. His journey exemplifies the transformative power of education, determination, and community support.
Luis remains deeply connected to Millhill and the Trenton community. He frequently returns to speak to current PEERS participants and members of other Youth Engagement Programs, sharing his experiences and encouraging others to pursue their dreams.
Recently, he had the honor of representing Bank of America at Millhill’s 50th Celebration, showcasing his achievements as an alumnus of both Millhill’s PEERS program and Rutgers University. The strong relationships built during his time in the PEERS program continue to support him on his journey to adulthood and professional success.
The success of individuals like Luis Gasca is a testament to the transformative impact of organizations like Millhill and PEERS. These programs provide vital support, guidance, and resources to empower youth in their pursuit of education and personal growth. However, sustaining and expanding these programs requires ongoing financial support from the community.
Join us in supporting the next generation of leaders, change-makers, and community advocates. Your contribution will make a lasting impact on the lives of young individuals, just like Luis Gasca, who are determined to break barriers and create a brighter future for themselves and their community. Together, we can empower the youth of Trenton to reach new heights and build a stronger, more vibrant community for all.
