Larielys Nieves Rivera is a young Puerto Rican woman who represents perseverance, courage, and an unbreakable desire to reach her dreams. Born in Luquillo, a small coastal town in Puerto Rico, Larielys always dreamed of achieving great goals, even though her path was not without challenges. From a young age, she faced the difficulties of being part of the public education system on the Island, where opportunities for students like her were limited, especially when aspiring to higher education abroad.
However, rather than giving up, Larielys found the motivation to push forward in her studies and extracurricular activities, which defined her during her time at Isidro A. Sánchez High School, from which she graduated in 2022.
The challenge of applying to universities outside Puerto Rico was one of the greatest obstacles for Larielys. She lacked the necessary formal support and clear guidance to navigate such a complex process, but her determination led her to find opportunities on her own. It was during this time of uncertainty that a Spanish teacher, upon learning of her interest in studying in the United States, recommended the Kinesis Foundation to her. This recommendation became a turning point in Larielys' life, as Kinesis not only supported her with a financial scholarship but also opened doors to new opportunities, such as research projects in her field of interest.
Today, Larielys is pursuing a concentration in Cognitive Science at the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, with an expected graduation date of 2026. Thanks to Kinesis' support, she has been able to focus on her studies without the constant worry about financial barriers. She has also become part of a community of Puerto Rican students with similar dreams and aspirations, which has been a source of inspiration and motivation to keep moving forward. Furthermore, the foundation has provided her with crucial opportunities for academic and professional growth, allowing her to participate in research that complements her education and opens new doors for her future.
The impact of Kinesis on Larielys' life goes beyond academics. The support she received has been a beacon of hope, connecting her with a network of people who share her vision of achieving great goals. This community, united by the desire to overcome challenges, has motivated her to give her best every day. Additionally, having been a beneficiary of the "Generation Change Scholarship," Larielys has further solidified her commitment to progress and positive change, both in her personal life and in society.
Despite the challenges, Larielys has never lost sight of her hobbies and what energizes her. Among her favorite activities are dancing salsa and Afro-pop, singing, learning about music and instruments, and connecting with nature at the beach. For her, sharing these moments with her loved ones adds even more value to her achievements. She not only pursues academic success but also takes care of her well-being and personal balance.
Larielys' advice to other students seeking success is clear and motivating: “Don’t be afraid to dream big. If you have a goal, pursue it with determination. If you have interest and passion, you’ll find the resources necessary to achieve it, even though it may seem difficult without help. Dedication and consistency are key; it won’t be easy, but I assure you that in the end, it will be worth it. Effort always pays off!”
Larielys Nieves Rivera is a living testament that dreams have no borders, and with effort, support, and passion, any goal can be reached. Her success story is an inspiration to all those who, like her, seek to turn their dreams into reality, regardless of the obstacles that may arise along the way.
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