Oregon GEAR UP

Name: Pedro Arenas
Hometown: McMinnville, Oregon
High School: McMinnville High School
University: Oregon State University
Year in school: Sophomore
Major: Double Degree History & Education
Activities: I'm currently Activities Coordinator at the Centro Cultural Cesar Chavez. I'm also a part of Omega Delta Phi, a multicultural Fraternity, which is a social/ service basis organization.

What/who was the biggest influence on your decision to go to college?
My mother was one of my biggest influences. She encouraged me throughout my entire life. She never doubted my capabilities. She helped me reconsider attending a university. She has played a part in my overall success.

What is one of the best things about college?
The best part would be meeting people from different walks of life. I have created different friendships within the two years at Oregon State University. These connections may have not occurred if I had stayed within my hometown.

What was your most memorable GEAR UP moment?
The most memorable moment throughout the GEAR UP program would be my trip to the University of Oregon. While touring the large campus, I learned about different programs offered at the school. I had never been to a University as large as U of O.

What are your future career plans?
I plan on teaching history at the high school level. Later in my career, I plan on working in school administration.

What advice do you have for students currently in middle and high school GEAR UP programs? 
Stay focused in school and be involved in your community. Also don't let your financial situation stop you from attending college. It didn't stop me and it shouldn't stop you.