Supporting SAISD Alumni after Graduation

“I didn’t know where to begin, but I knew I wanted to start.”

For many graduates, the transition from high school to college can feel like standing before a locked door without a key. For Jesslyn Cervantes, a 2024 graduate of the SAISD Healy Murphy Learning Center (HMLC), that key appeared in the form of an email and a dedicated Navigator named Letty P.

The Connection

The journey started with a mystery. When Letty received an email from Jesslyn asking for enrollment help, she noticed Jesslyn wasn’t on her current caseload. After some quick research, Letty identified her as a recent HMLC alumna. The bridge? A SAISD Foundation flyer was handed to Jesslyn’s mother by a thoughtful school counselor.

“They help alumni with college enrollment, among other things,” the counselor had said. That simple hand-off sparked a life-changing partnership.

Bridging the Gap 

After a quick phone call to clear up outdated contact information, Letty and Jesslyn met where it mattered most: on-site at St. Philip’s College.

During their first meeting, Letty helped Jesslyn navigate the complexities of:

• College Applications: Turning “I don’t know where to start” into “Application submitted.”
• FAFSA Assistance: Breaking down the financial barriers to higher education.
• Goal Setting: Mapping out the path to Jesslyn’s dream of becoming a Certified Sonogram Technician.

The Impact 

What stood out most to Letty wasn’t just the paperwork—it was Jesslyn’s spirit.

“I saw how determined Jesslyn was to enroll and how enthusiastic she was that help had finally arrived for her future goals,” Letty shared. “She has a drive to succeed and do her absolute best.”

Our Commitment 

The Postsecondary Navigators Program doesn’t just provide a one-time meeting; we provide a partnership. Letty will continue to walk alongside Jesslyn until the final enrollment process is complete, ensuring her dream of a career in healthcare becomes a reality.

Once a student, always our priority. We are here to help our alumni navigate what’s next.

SAISD graduating seniors and recent graduates have access to Postsecondary Navigators who help young alumni through all the steps in the college enrollment process throughout the year. They also advise and help when students transfer schools. If college is not part of your plan, Postsecondary Navigators help you connect to workforce or military programs. Find your navigator by visiting here https://saisdfoundation.com/college-students/