True Life:Surviving RIT

Last night I had the opportunity to once again address a mixture of college students. I was asked by one of my fraternity brothers to deliver a presentation on being successful in college. Although I have never attended R.I.T. the components of my message are pretty universal. My presentation was followed by a panel of 5th year Seniors at R.I.T. who represent a variety of cultures, and majors. The students spoke genuinely about the positive and not so positive experiences they have had in their lives and at R.I.T. They also offered the students advice, and gave them honest opinions on what they felt worked for them. Although none of the students have graduated yet, they are definitely in the final stretch.

As I sat there listening to what they had to say, I found myself desperately wanting to throw all of them into my SUV and bring them to school the next day. Why, you may ask? Because they are a direct reflection of my students. My students, do not have role models or connections to the world that is achievable through education. Role models and mentors that not only look like them but also exhibit the importance of college attainment.

I would like to give kudos to Mr. Sean Bennett, Director of the North Star Center, who sponsored this event with the ideas of Mr. Shaun Villanueva. Mr. Bennett is definitely an advocate and agent for change at R.I.T. Good Luck as their is still much to do on your campus.

Living the Dream!
Mr. Soler

MCC Latino Male Retention Program

Yesterday I had the opportunity and privilege to speak to an all male Latino based MCC Retention Program. I was asked by a colleague of mine, if I would come and speak to the class. She wanted me to share my message of education and expose the students to another successful Latino male. As I previously stated, I was honored.

I presented a slide show very similar to what I had shown students at the University of Rochester's event a couple of weeks ago. The theme and message was still relevant to this group of students. Throughout the presentation we had, great "teachable moments" and instances where students were inspired. In particularly when we spoke about getting involved on campus, and making your mark. The students looked at this statement as their opportunity to reignite a club that has diminished over the past couple of years, "Latin Pride." I hope they take up the challenge and reestablish this once existent program. There is a huge void for the Latino student body at MCC, and hopefully these 13 young men will change that for future generations of Latinos who enroll at MCC.

I would also challenge them to recreate the name of the program, as it labels them already as having a deficit with the word "retention." We all know that they don't have a deficit but rather an untapped opportunity!

Ultimately, what I enjoyed the most, was that these students stood before me as a reflection of myself 13 years ago. Most come from various backgrounds and support systems but all have one thing in common, the desire to do great things. They have much work to be done, but with the guidance of Professor Alas, and Professor Quinones-Rosado they will be just fine.

Good luck and keep Living the Dream mi hermanitos! Adelante!!

Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
www.anibalsoler.com