Parenting students take pride in each others’ accomplishments, said Velasco, whose second son was born the day after he started his master's program. “More than anyone, they recognize the sacrifices and just the strength that’s needed to get to a school like UCLA.”to prepare prospective transfer students. Through summer, fall and year-long academic programs, university representatives guide them through the admissions process.
At the college, Bravo majored in political science and worked hard to make good grades. She became a regular at office hours and often took her baby to campus. Soon, her professors began to take notice. Bravo transferred to UCLA in three years, but despite being a strong student, she initially struggled to stay afloat.
The parenting students also formed study groups, which enabled them to get their work done while their children played. Toward the end of their undergraduate careers, they even helped each other apply to graduate school.