Young Latinos Get a Push for Education

Hispanics are the fastest growing segment of the US population, but are the least likely to get college degrees

30 March 2010

Latino students attend an Hispanic College Fund event aimed at providing them with the tools they need to get into college and obtain the financial aid they might require.

Latinos are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population but Latino students are the least likely to get college degrees.

According to the Hispanic College Fund, that's mainly because of the lack of role models, poverty and being unprepared to navigate through the American educational system.

Providing tools

The nonprofit Hispanic College Fund (HCF) is working to change that by providing Latino youth with the information and tools they need to pursue a college degree in order to become more competitive in the 21st century economy.

University of Maryland freshman Karen Guzman has big plans for her future.

"I'm actually trying to [get a] double degree in computer science and psychology, with a minor in Latin American studies." The 18-year-old says her dreams have become possible thanks to a scholarship from the Hispanic College Fund, which is dedicated to developing the next generation of Hispanic professionals.

Hispanic College FundThe annual Hispanic Youth Symposium offers an opportunity for young Latinos to build networks and self esteem.