Madison College student Patricio Tinoco is working towards helping individuals affected by dementia. His interest in this field was sparked during his volunteer work at Agrace Hospice, where he witnessed the emotional impact on families visiting loved ones with memory diseases.
“I had to do something, be more proactive. That’s what I want to study—biochemistry—and help research that specific area of memory disease,” Tinoco stated.
Tinoco's dedication has been recognized through his selection as a DREAM Scholar for 2024, one of only eight students chosen nationwide. At the DREAM 2024 convention in Orlando, Florida, he connected with peers and honed leadership skills.
“What I want to do is be a mentor and advocate, especially for those like me—first-gen Latinos,” said Tinoco.
His educational journey took a significant turn when he enrolled at Capital High School in Madison and later joined the Madison College Gateway to College program. This initiative allowed him to earn both college and high school credits simultaneously.
Renuka Gunawardena, his support advisor at Madison College Gateway to College, encouraged him to volunteer at Agrace Hospice and apply for the DREAM Scholar program. Despite finding the interview process challenging, Tinoco was thrilled with the outcome.
“I called Renuka when I got the news that I was a DREAM Scholar. It was great hearing her voice on the other line filled with joy,” Tinoco shared.
The Achieving the Dream’s DREAM Scholars program aims to develop community college students into leaders through conferences like the one held in Orlando. Tinoco remains connected with fellow scholars across the U.S., learning from their experiences at different community colleges.
“It’s a great group,” he remarked. “It’s great to figure out what they’re doing at their community colleges.”
At Madison College's Student Achievement Center, Tinoco tutors students for 12 hours each week, inspired by lessons learned as a DREAM Scholar.
“That was the big thing that I took away from the conference, to represent and advocate for students, especially Latinx,” he noted.
Tinoco emphasizes supporting first-generation Latino students and other underrepresented groups within higher education. He believes these communities should thrive and serve as role models within academia's upper echelons.
Recently introduced to a program aiding Latino and Black students with embedded tutoring in challenging subjects like math and science, Tinoco hopes to implement similar initiatives at Madison College after witnessing positive outcomes elsewhere.
“That’s something that I would like to start at Madison College,” he expressed enthusiasm about future projects while continuing his tutoring efforts Monday through Thursday.
“Some students may not know what resources are available or have never read a textbook," explained Tinoco regarding his tutoring approach."I guide them through study methods."
With plans set on graduating this May before transferring into biochemistry studies further down academia's path—a four-year university awaits next year—Tinco remains committed toward aiding others' success along theirs too!
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