I encourage young people to take risks and to follow their hearts, and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something you want to do. Just go … - Polly Baca

I always enjoy coming (to CSU). One of the reasons I do is because this university changed my life, and I think it can change yours as well, but you have to be open to allowing change to happen.

The racism we experienced really burned a flame in my heart that created a passion to help my community. Because of that scholarship, I felt this burden – I was one of the few people who looked like me to get this opportunity, so I owed my community to do well, and it wasn’t acceptable to fail.

I want students that come to CSU to value their experience here and everything they encounter on this campus because it’s a unique opportunity. Not everyone is able to come to CSU. It’s a gift and an opportunity that you need to explore to the fullest extent.