After spending four years playing volleyball and earning a business marketing degree in Nebraska, Aracely Hernandez returned home to Greeley to begin a career in event planning.
A University High School (Greeley) graduate, Hernandez knew Bright Futures could help her spread her wings and pursue her education at Chadron State College.
“It was such an incredibly helpful aid,” Hernandez said of the tuition assistance. “It was also so easy to fill out and complete.”
Bright Futures is open to eligible Weld County students, and the tuition assistance can be applied to any Colorado college, trade school, or training program as well as eligible schools in adjoining states.
The option to use her tuition assistance in Nebraska allowed Hernandez to explore a new place while continuing her volleyball career.
Through the Bright Futures application, she also learned more about her hometown community while completing the required service hours.
“Bright Futures is a very good helping hand and sets you up for success,” Hernandez said. “It helps you be accountable and connect with your community. The community service also helps you start building your resume right out of high school.”
Hernandez has worked in event planning at DoubleTree by Hilton for more than a year and now serves as the catering sales manager. She said she is grateful to be back home and working in the community that helped support her success.