College becomes reality for dedicated Fredericksburg student
Tretel grew up in a single-parent home in Fredericksburg. He has two siblings and his mom always hoped her children would be able to attend college. She didn’t have the opportunity herself and knew it would be tough financially.
Thanks to a local education program supported by Rappahannock United Way, Tretel was able to make that dream a reality. He recently moved into his dorm and started his freshman year at North Carolina AT&T State University.
“Growing up, my mom always stressed the importance of working hard and going to college, but I wasn’t sure it would ever be possible for me,” said Tretel, who learned about Project Discovery at school when he was in 7th grade. “After talking to the representative, I decided the program was worth a shot and I took the paperwork home to my mom that night. She signed me up and made sure I was at every meeting from then on.”
That drive and determination helped Tretel succeed as he progressed into high school.
“Project Discovery showed me how to get past all my fears and barriers in order to be able to attend college,” said Tretel. “If I wasn’t in Project Discovery, I would have felt like college was impossible for me. The program offered a lot of different workshops, all of them beneficial, including college tours and access to SAT fee waivers.”
Because of Project Discovery, Tretel was able to learn everything he needed to know about applying for and getting accepted to the college of his choice.
“This program gives kids the tools and knowledge to go to college,” said Tretel. “It empowers us.”
This year 150 local high school students just like Tretel will have the opportunity to succeed with Project Discovery. Rappahannock United Way recently gave $30,000 to Project Discovery to help these local 10th-12th graders successfully complete their high school careers and progress into post-secondary education. Because of generous Rappahannock United Way donors, students like Tretel have a bright future.
Without the generous support of individuals like you in our community Rappahannock United Way will not be able to continue to fund great programs like Project Discovery. Please join us today and consider a gift to Rappahannock United Way’s Education Fund. Simply click here.