Post by Santa Clara University

As a first-generation college student from a small farming community, Juana Melgoza ’26 once believed companies like Netflix and Disney were out of reach. When asked to list her dream employers in a LEAD Scholars Program career course, Melgoza initially crossed the companies out because they didn't feel "realistic." But then, a conversation with a mentor challenged her to think bigger. Through LEAD, Melgoza built the confidence, network, and professional experience to pursue opportunities she once thought were unattainable. Along the way, she expanded her professional connections and applied her business marketing skills as a senior marketing assistant for LEAD, helping create social media campaigns that connected first-generation students with resources, opportunities, and community.