Beloved TV icon Mr. Rogers advised that in uncertain times, “Look for the helpers.”
Lariece Reyna exemplifies those wise words. Brimming with promise when she won two Don Diego scholarships totaling $7,500 in 2020, she continues to build upon her potential while uplifting others as this first- gen college student lifted herself up through academics, athletics, and FFA at Escondido High. A recommender said, “Lariece will not let her circumstances define her. She is a remarkable young lady who stands in the face of obstacles and fights through them.”
While pursuing a major in Sociology and minor in Native American Studies at UCSD, where she earned a BA in 2024, Lariece grew as a helper. During the pandemic, she was a campus health ambassador; providing masks and info to students and visitors. A member of the Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel, she also served on the Native American and Indigenous Student Alliance board.
From Mentee to Mentor
Lariece was mentored during her first two years via UCSD’s TRIO program that helps low-income, first-generation college students and/or students with disabilities achieve academic success, empowerment, and improved sense of belonging. As a junior and senior, she became a mentor; ultimately being honored as 2024 “TRIO Mentor of the Year.”
Today, Lariece has harnessed her lived experience, mentorship expertise, and energetic commitment to helping others. After working as a Career Navigator for Access, Inc., where she facilitated economic and educational development for young adults, she is now a Career and Technical Education Paraprofessional at Learn4Life schools in San Diego.
Lariece confides, “Every time I see a participant succeed amid challenging circumstances, I take it as a sign that I am doing what I am meant to do.”