Staff Report / Sanlocal.org

Dalia Ramirez, a 20-year-old student at San Diego City College, is making strides as a first-generation Mexican American. Raised in a household with undocumented family members, Ramirez faced significant challenges growing up, including witnessing her father's deportation while she was in elementary school. Despite these obstacles, she has taken on the responsibility of caring for her younger brother while her mother works two jobs.

Ramirez initially struggled with the idea of attending college, citing financial aid concerns and a lack of navigation resources. However, she found support at San Diego City College, where she began attending general education classes at the age of 15 through a dual enrollment program with San Diego High School. She is an active member of MEChA de City College, a club that promotes Hispanic and Latino representation on college campuses.

After initially funding her tuition privately and studying medical assisting for its affordability, she secured federal financial aid with the help of City College counselors. She is now majoring in political science and journalism.

Ramirez highlighted the extensive support available at City College, such as access to a food pantry and a professional attire closet for job interviews. However, she emphasized that tuition can still be a burden for students, especially those in challenging situations like hers. She advocates for affordable community college education and simplified access to scholarships and grants.

Recently elected as the president of City College’s Associated Students (AS) for the 2024-25 academic year, Ramirez also serves as the college’s student representative on the San Diego Community College District Board of Trustees. She aims to raise awareness about scholarship opportunities, and address student needs such as free printing, gas cards, and support with vision coverage.

Ramirez plans to graduate from City College in Spring 2025 and hopes to transfer to the University of California, Irvine, with assistance from the UC's Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan. Her long-term goal is to attend law school and advocate for young undocumented immigrants, particularly those in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. She expresses a desire to make a positive impact on the student community, stating, “I want to leave a great impact for our students by supporting them in their journey.”

For more information, visit sdccd.edu/newscenter.

Source: San Diego Community College District | San Diego CA | Facebook

Source Type: College

Source Location: San Diego

San Diego, CA

https://www.facebook.com/972121697654525/posts/1148636660003027

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