For many high schoolers, preparing for the “future” can feel like swimming alone in a vast ocean.
The currents are constantly changing, and the horizon is filled with unknowns. College preparation—applications, deadlines, majors, financial aid—can feel overwhelming.

A month ago, we had the chance to speak with Sophia, a current junior at UIUC and alumna of CREO. The first in her family to attend college, she shared why CREO was so important in helping her navigate the process.

As a high school student, she remembers simply trying to keep up with classes. Then conversations with teachers and peers began to revolve around college. What do colleges look for? What makes a good fit? What should I look for? How much does it cost?
One question led to another until the process felt enormous and confusing.

Sophia recalled feeling like “everything was a mess.” She also felt the weight of the pressure put on students:

“You only have a limited amount of time. You have to decide a major early on, have a focus… and that’s really a lot of pressure—from parents, from teachers, from yourself. It’s terrifying.”

But in the midst of that fear, Sophia had CREO.

When students face this big ocean of choices and expectations, CREO walks with them so they don’t feel like a small fish swimming alone. For Sophia, one of the most meaningful sources of support was her weekly coaching sessions. Her mentor quickly became a steady presence:

“I was really struggling with classes, but every time we talked, I immediately felt at ease. She helped me with homework, helped me focus, helped me set goals. She was just so nice.”

Through mentorship and workshops, Sophia gradually felt more confident and organized. Instead of being overwhelmed by the college process, she began taking concrete steps toward her future.

“I was able to really focus on a path—on what I wanted to do.”

CREO supported her through comparing colleges, searching for scholarships, and planning for life after high school. Workshops on leadership, money management, and other practical skills helped her develop habits that would support her long after graduation.

At first, Sophia had no idea what she wanted to pursue:

“I was undecided for a long time because I didn’t know if I wanted to do English or psychology, or if I should do health as well and go into nursing…”

But what mattered was that she had the tools and support to explore. CREO helped her evaluate her options and choose the next right step. She began at the College of DuPage, where she could explore different fields—and where she found a life-changing opportunity to study abroad in Spain for half the cost of compared to other programs. Eventually, she discovered that psychology was her passion, and she transferred to UIUC, where she is now finishing her degree.

The ocean is vast and full of possibilities. At CREO, our mission is to help students recognize those possibilities—and to ensure they don’t have to swim alone. Through resources, workshops, mentorship, and family engagement, we guide students toward the dreams that make their hearts sing.

And every time a student like Sophia finds her way, we are reminded why this work—and the support of our community—matters so deeply.

Take action now and support our students!