Bonnie Acosta entered CPE’s program in the fall of 2008. She grew up in both Hyattsville, MD, and in Washington, DC. Bonnie selected CPE because she had encountered many students who were already in the program and shared their positive experiences with her. She wanted to go to college and believed CPE’s supportive network would help her grow as a student but also as a person that can give back to the community.
What’s one memorable moment you have of you and your mentor?
My mentor was an essential part of my growth because I saw myself becoming a professional, just like she was. I remembered how caring she was while I was stressed about school but also made sure that I had fun and balance. We would go to Dave and Buster’s and enjoy being able to have fun and destress from all the school work and college applications.
How did your mentor help you with the college application process?
Pam recognized that I wanted to experience college where I could grow and be challenged. She encouraged me to look into colleges at various locations and of varying sizes. I felt that I had a person who truly believed in my goals and made the thought of leaving the area more comfortable and a possibility. I am very happy that I had a chance to grow during my four years in upstate New York.
What college did you go to and what career path did you choose?
I attended Cornell University and graduated as an Atmospheric Sciences major with a Latinx Studies minor. I have always wanted to learn more about the weather and climate, and I knew it was a passion of mine since I was a child. Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s of Science for Emergency Management with Millersville University in Pennsylvania.
In what ways has CPE impacted your life?
CPE has shown me that a community can create a positive impact in a student’s life and CPE has embodied that in my life. Going through high school, CPE helped me discover some essential professional and academic skills that I would put into practice while visiting colleges and spending time with my peers. I continued to develop those skills in college. CPE was part of my community that was cheering me on back home throughout the time. It has been many years now since I was a student in CPE, but their care, guidance, and positivity continues to affect me to this day.
What do you enjoy doing with your free time?
I enjoy knitting and crocheting, baking, and dancing. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family and trying new foods!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I have ever received has been to recognize that we know more than we give ourselves credit for. It’s important to trust oneself to make decisions that may seem scary, but in the end can have some positive and life-changing results.