A Valley honor student says she can't go to a coveted college prep summer program without help from the public.
Agua High Junior Mia Oquita has been dreaming of going to Oxford's prestigious Summer Exchange for two years.
Although she's been accepted into the program both times and awarded a partial scholarship, her family can't afford the remaining amount.
"It is upsetting knowing it's just money that's holding me back at this point," she said.
Her principal, Ernest Molina, said she worked too hard in school and extracurricular activities to give up the opportunity. He encouraged her to crowdsource the money.
"I just looked at her and I said, OK, you're meeting with me later and we're going to figure this out," he said.
Molina added that faculty and staff even gave their own money to Oquita.
"We're digging into our pockets," Molina proclaimed.
In addition to donating their own money, Agua High faculty helped Mia create and advertise a GoFundMe page. Her family helped her sell chocolates, and she even went door to door asking for donations.
Oquita was moved by the help from her community.
"I'm actually shocked my teachers were willing to do this for me," Oquita said.
Oquita said the immersive experience at Oxford's summer program will open doors for her higher education, and might even help inspire others.
"For my brother, I want him to know it's not about the money," she added. "If you work hard, you'll get there."
Oquita told 12News she needs $6,000 to pay for the remaining expenses, which does not include the cost of living. You can find her GoFundMe page online.
