Life happens, but don’t forget your dreams. That’s Isabella Garcia’s current mantra, especially as she’s recently tackled her mom’s health struggles and finishing high school amidst a global pandemic. But, it’s not holding back this 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship recipient with a passion for activism, which she plans on getting in on once she heads to California to attend Mills College this fall.

What is your professional dream?

I want to run a campaign and be involved in public education at the federal or state level.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

I will use it for my education — any books or tuition that me and my family cannot afford.

How is this scholarship helping you get closer to your dream? 

This scholarship is tool to help me be the best student I can be for my family and myself. I want to attend law school — and by helping me get through my undergrad with financial ease, I’ll be able to better pursue my law school dream.

​What advice do you have for other young women who are wanting to pursue their dreams?

Don’t ever let someone tell you that you’re dreaming too big, and don’t ever be afraid to dominate current male spaces. Be the first of many women to accomplish your dreams. You are strong and resilient and don’t forget that!

​Have you had any setbacks? How did you move past them?

While experiencing my last year of high school, I was not only challenged with the struggle of COVID-19 but also challenged by my mom’s cancer diagnosis. Working hard to ensure my next step to college education while juggling my mom’s illness was and is still hard. And although I don’t have the true answer success, I’ve been fortunate to have a large community ready to help my family and me when we have setbacks.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

My next goal is to move to California and get involved in youth organizing in the Bay area. Activism helps me give back to my communities while teaching me about life. I’m ready to keep learning.