Eric Zavala: Pioneering His Way Through Education

Eric Zavala

Eric Zavala is a first-generation college student trailblazer. He is one of six children and the first in his immediate and extended family to attend college. His journey to SLCC has not been easy, as neither he nor his family knew anything about how to navigate college. “The pressure I feel as a first-gen college student is real as I want to succeed for myself and my family,” says Eric.

At a very difficult time in his academic career, Eric debated whether to give up on his dream and pay his bills or pay his tuition. At this exact moment, he received a phone call from TRiO, a program that helps first-generation college students. They offered him academic, financial, and additional support to ensure his success at SLCC.

“After receiving help from TRiO, my grades have improved, and I am planning on pursuing a Bachelor’s and maybe even a Master’s degree someday,” says Eric.

Eric now shares his experience with his siblings and cousins to ensure that their higher academic journeys are smoother than his. His advice for anyone struggling academically and in general is to ask for help. “If you feel alone and cannot do it anymore, reach out and ask for help; there will always be someone there to help you, whether here at SLCC or wherever you are. Asking for help will not diminish your hard work and efforts throughout your journey; if anything, it will strengthen you to continue moving forward,” says Eric.

Eric is actively pursuing a degree in Computer Science and will graduate with his associate’s degree in the spring of 2025.

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