Highlander Early Start Academy

Student Testimonials

HESA Testimonials

As I enter my fourth year, I truly owe my growth as a student to the HESA program. It allowed me to push myself out of my comfort zone, create long-lasting network connections with amazing ARC staff, and shaped me into a solid student by consistently keeping a 3.0+ GPA. The program provides everything you need to succeed and it's up to you to take advantage of it. My previous students have done amazing things like start clubs or become student leaders, so I'm excited to see what you can achieve!
Myalina Benavides
HESA Student, 2017 & HESA Peer Mentor 2018,19, 20
I am grateful to be a part of the HESA program as an incoming freshman. It is, in my opinion, the best way of adjusting and transitioning into becoming a successful college student early on during the school year. This allowed me to no longer get lost on-campus while knowing where everything is (i.e. classrooms, places to eat, residential areas, and even an academic resource center [ARC] that is easily accessible for any student). If I never went to UC Riverside over summer 2022, I would have missed out on the early college experience, especially considering I was a student dorming on-campus. It was nice to bond, do homework together, and of course, experience independence/freedom as an adult with other students dorming next to me and in class. If I have any chance to repeat that experience again, I would definitely take it. I still miss my time in the HESA program to this day.
Timothy Goh
HESA Student, 2022
Being a part of HESA was more than just an educational journey; it was a transformative experience that touched every aspect of my life. From the first day, I felt embraced by a community that genuinely cared about my success and well-being. The support, encouragement, and mentorship I received not only fueled my academic growth but also instilled confidence and belief in myself. HESA didn't just teach me skills; it helped me discover my passions and purpose. It's more than a program; it's a family, and I am forever grateful for the incredible impact it has had on my life.
Hazal Seran
HESA Student, 2022
So far HESA has been one of the best choices I've made entering college. The HESA program during the summer prepared me for the fall quarter and beyond. Being able to take classes during the summer helped me get a sense of what college would feel like. I also really enjoyed the extra activities that led me to make friends that I still keep in contact with. Overall, I loved participating in the HESA program and would recommend it for any incoming first-year.
Naima Cano
HESA Student, 2023
I would like to thank you for your generosity in providing me with this scholarship! Receiving this scholarship motivates me to maintain my GPA and be very grateful to be a part of the HESA program. Thanks to your support, I am able to have the tools I need such as text books to continue with my college experience and work towards my dreams and goals. Thank you again.
Miriam Rendon
HESA Student, 2018
The HESA Program gave me a wonderful head start into my first year at UCR and I'm immensely grateful I could be a part of it. I learned so many important skills for success and made lifelong friends thanks to HESA. Thank you again!
Megan Woodall
HESA Student, 2019